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'Cereals account for the major part of carbohydrate intake in the diet.' (a) Identify the main sources of cereals in the Irish diet and state why some people avoid / limit their intake of cereals - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2 - 2012
Question 2
'Cereals account for the major part of carbohydrate intake in the diet.' (a) Identify the main sources of cereals in the Irish diet and state why some people avoid ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'Cereals account for the major part of carbohydrate intake in the diet.' (a) Identify the main sources of cereals in the Irish diet and state why some people avoid / limit their intake of cereals - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2 - 2012
Step 1
Identify the main sources of cereals in the Irish diet and state why some people avoid / limit their intake of cereals.
Answer
The primary sources of cereals in the Irish diet include:
- Breads: Varieties such as white, brown, whole grain, etc.
- Pasta: Made from wheat flour, commonly consumed in various dishes.
- Breakfast cereals: Such as cornflakes, oats, and museli.
- Others: Maize, barley, rye, etc.
Some people avoid or limit their intake of cereals for several reasons:
- Gluten Sensitivity: Individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance may experience severe digestive issues when consuming gluten-containing cereals.
- Health Concerns: Some may choose low Glycemic Index (GI) diets to manage blood sugar levels, as certain cereals can cause spikes in blood glucose.
- Dietary Restrictions: People on specific dietary plans (like low-carb diets) may avoid cereals due to their carbohydrate content.
Step 2
Give an account of the nutritive value of cereals.
Answer
Cereals contribute significant nutritional value to the diet:
- Carbohydrates: They are a primary source of energy, providing essential carbohydrates like starch.
- Dietary Fiber: Whole grain cereals are rich in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Cereals are a source of various B vitamins (e.g., thiamine, riboflavin) and minerals like iron and magnesium, which are vital for metabolic processes.
- Protein: Though lower in protein compared to other food groups, cereals still offer some amount, particularly in grains like quinoa and oats. Overall, cereals are an important component for maintaining balanced nutrition.
Step 3
Explain food fortification.
Answer
Food fortification is the process of adding essential nutrients to food products to enhance their nutritional value. This is done to combat nutrient deficiencies commonly observed in certain populations. For instance, vitamins A and D, as well as iron, may be added to staple foods to ensure that people get adequate amounts of these important nutrients.
Step 4
Comment on the increasing consumption of fortified food products.
Answer
The rising consumption of fortified foods relates to several factors:
- Health Promotion: There is a greater public awareness of health issues, leading individuals to choose fortified products to address nutrient deficiencies.
- Preventative Health: Fortified foods are seen as a proactive measure in preventing health conditions, such as osteoporosis and certain vitamin deficiencies.
- Convenience: Fortified foods are often readily available, making it easier for individuals to meet their nutritional needs without requiring significant dietary changes. This trend reflects a broader commitment to public health and nutrition improvement.