1. ‘Food-based dietary guidelines’ is the complete scientific term for a set of healthy eating messages provided for a population, in terms of how much and which types of foods to eat for good health - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1 - 2012

Carbohydrates are organic compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. They are primary sources of energy in the diet, and can be categorized into simple and complex carbohydrates.

1. Chemical Structure of a Monosaccharide: Monosaccharides are the simplest form of carbohydrates. The most common monosaccharide is glucose, with a chemical formula of $C_6H_{12}O_6$. Its ring structure plays a vital role in its reactivity and energy provision.

2. Formation of Disaccharides: Disaccharides form when two monosaccharides join through a glycosidic bond, which involves the elimination of a water molecule. For instance:

   • Glucose + Glucose → Maltose (Disaccharide)
   • Glucose + Fructose → Sucrose
   • Glucose + Galactose → Lactose

3. Hydrolysis & Inversion: Hydrolysis of disaccharides occurs when they react with water and enzymes or acids, breaking down into their monosaccharide components. For example:

   $$$$

ightarrow 2 ext{Glucose} $$

Inversion occurs when sucrose is hydrolyzed into glucose and fructose by heating with an acid, demonstrating how the configuration changes and influences sweetness.

Balancing energy intake and output is crucial for maintaining a healthy body weight and overall well-being.

1. Energy Balance: Energy intake refers to the calories consumed through food and drink, while energy output pertains to calories burned through metabolic processes and physical activity. Maintaining a state of balance prevents weight gain or loss.

2. Health Implications: If energy intake exceeds output, it can lead to obesity, which is associated with numerous health issues, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and joint problems. Conversely, insufficient energy intake can cause malnutrition and weight loss, leading to weakness and compromised immune function.

3. Sustainable Practices: Individuals should aim for a lifestyle that incorporates regular physical activity alongside a well-balanced diet to sustain a healthy energy level, promote fitness, and support metabolic health.

In today's society, food shopping practices are being influenced by several contemporary trends.

1. Online Shopping: More consumers are turning to online grocery stores for convenience, particularly for emergency essentials or bulk items. This trend has accelerated significantly, especially post-pandemic.

2. Specialist Shops: There is an increasing popularity for specialist shops (e.g., ethnic, organic), where consumers prefer diverse, high-quality, and niche food products.

3. Health-Conscious Choices: Shoppers are becoming more health-conscious, opting for organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free products; this trend is escalating as people become more aware of food sources and health impacts.

4. Sustainability: Emphasis on sustainability leads many shoppers to favor local producers, seasonal fruits, and vegetables, and packaging-free stores.

5. Social Media Influence: Social media holds significant influence over shopping behaviors, with trends often driven by platforms showcasing food styles, diets, and shopping routines.

These trends signify a shift in consumer behavior towards more informed, conscious choices in food shopping.