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Irish grown vegetables get to our shelves quickly, and so are more nutritious - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3 - 2021
Question 3
Irish grown vegetables get to our shelves quickly, and so are more nutritious. (a) Give an account of (i) the nutritive value and (ii) the dietetic value of vegetab... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Irish grown vegetables get to our shelves quickly, and so are more nutritious - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3 - 2021
Step 1
Give an account of (i) the nutritive value
Answer
Vegetables are a rich source of essential nutrients.
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Vitamins and Minerals: They provide various vitamins such as Vitamin C, which is vital for immune function, and Vitamin A, important for vision. Additionally, minerals like potassium help in maintaining blood pressure.
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Dietary Fiber: Vegetables are high in dietary fiber which aids digestion and helps in maintaining a healthy weight.
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Low in Calories: Most vegetables are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight.
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Phytochemicals: They contain phytochemicals, which are compounds that have antioxidant properties and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Step 2
Give an account of (ii) the dietetic value
Answer
The dietetic value of vegetables refers to how they contribute to a balanced diet.
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Variety in Diet: Vegetables add variety and color, making meals more appealing and palatable.
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Health Benefits: They are known to reduce the risk of diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and obesity.
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Weight Management: High fiber content in vegetables promotes satiety, potentially aiding in weight management.
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Sustainable Eating: Consuming more local vegetables contributes to sustainable agricultural practices, thus having a positive environmental impact.
Step 3
Outline: (i) the effects of cooking on vegetables
Answer
Cooking can have several effects on vegetables.
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Nutrient Loss: Certain nutrients, especially water-soluble vitamins like Vitamin C, can be lost during cooking.
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Texture Changes: Cooking softens the cellulose and other fibers, making vegetables easier to digest.
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Flavor Enhancement: Cooking can enhance flavors through processes such as caramelization.
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Improved Absorption: Some cooked vegetables allow better absorption of nutrients, such as lycopene in tomatoes.
Step 4
Outline: (ii) the guidelines for storing vegetables
Answer
Proper storage of vegetables is essential to maintain their freshness and nutritional quality.
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Storage Containers: Use breathable containers and avoid plastic wrapping to prevent moisture accumulation that can lead to spoilage.
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Cool Temperature: Store vegetables in a cool, well-ventilated area, ideally in the refrigerator, especially for perishable items.
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Avoid Damage: Handle vegetables with care to prevent bruising, which can lead to quicker spoilage.
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Regular Check: Frequently check stored vegetables for signs of spoilage and remove any damaged items promptly.
Step 5
Suggest two interesting ways of including vegetables in the diet of children
Answer
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Stir Frying Vegetables: Incorporate vibrant stir-fried vegetables, such as bell peppers and broccoli, into family meals. You can entice children by using colorful ingredients combined with their favorite sauces.
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Creative Shapes and Dishes: Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes from vegetables like cucumbers and carrots, or make vegetable pizza with a variety of toppings. Engaging children with visually appealing and interactive meals can encourage them to try more vegetables.