Answer the following questions on cholesterol - NSC Consumer Studies - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1

The main differences between LDL and HDL are:

• Function: LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells, but when present in excess, it can lead to arterial plaque formation. In contrast, HDL carries excess cholesterol back to the liver for excretion.
• Health Impact: High levels of LDL are associated with a greater risk of heart disease, while higher levels of HDL are linked to decreased risk as it helps to clear cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Genetically modified (GM) crops have the potential to significantly alleviate food scarcity around the globe. By enhancing the nutritional content of crops, such as increasing the yield of vitamins and minerals, GM technology can directly improve the diet of populations facing malnutrition. Furthermore, these crops can be engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions and pests, reducing the reliance on harmful pesticides and increasing food security. The ability to produce more food on the same amount of land can help meet the demands of a growing population while preventing further deforestation and habitat loss, ultimately contributing to a sustainable food system.

The three different types of additives present in the macaron cheese and bacon dish are:

1. Preservatives (e.g., sodium nitrite)
2. Flavour enhancers
3. Colorants

One significant concern regarding sodium nitrite is that it may be carcinogenic, which means it could potentially cause cancer, particularly when consumed in large quantities or overextended periods.

Sodium nitrite serves several key functions in the dish:

• It lengthens the shelf life of the food by preventing spoilage caused by microbial growth.
• It helps maintain the color and flavor of the dish, making it more appealing to consumers.

These ingredients are listed separately to enable consumers to easily identify allergens. Many individuals may have allergies to these components, and listing them distinctly helps avoid severe or life-threatening reactions.

The ingredient treated with short waves is mustard powder.

The two essential guidelines are:

1. Wash hands thoroughly before handling or serving the dish.
2. Heat the dish to a high internal temperature to ensure any harmful bacteria are eliminated.

This dish is beneficial for osteoporosis management due to the presence of calcium-rich ingredients, particularly cow's milk and cheddar cheese. These nutrients contribute to bone health by increasing bone density and reducing the risk of fractures. Vitamin D, also present in these ingredients, plays a crucial role in calcium absorption, further strengthening bones.

A suitable side dish would be steamed or grilled vegetables. These offer additional nutrients and fiber without adding unhealthy fats, making the meal heart-healthy.

This dish may not be suitable for someone aiming to manage obesity because:

• It is high in energy content, especially from carbohydrates and fats, which can contribute to weight gain.
• The presence of added sugars and saturated fats could hinder weight loss efforts.
• Overall, the high kilojoule content makes it less ideal for a weight management diet, as it could lead to exceeding daily caloric intake.