Balanced Diet and Nutrient Sources

IGCSE Edexcel Biology
2.24-2.26 Human Nutrition
Key Concept: A balanced diet provides the right proportions of nutrients for health and energy.

Section A: Nutrients

1. List the seven components of a balanced diet. [7]
2. Give one food source of each nutrient: protein, lipid, vitamin C, calcium, iron. [5]

Section B: Functions

3. State one function of vitamin D and one function of iron. [2]

Section C: Energy Needs

4. Explain why energy requirements vary with activity level, age, and pregnancy. [3]
Total marks: 17

Mark Scheme

1. Carbohydrate, protein, lipid, vitamins, minerals, water, dietary fibre [7]
2. Any correct sources for each nutrient [5]
3. Vitamin D: helps calcium absorption/bone strength; Iron: needed for haemoglobin/oxygen transport [2]
4. More activity needs more energy; growth needs extra energy; pregnancy needs energy for fetus and tissue growth [3]