Biology – 7.1 Human nutrition – diet | e-Consult

Water's Role and Consequences of Deficiency: Water is vital for virtually all bodily processes. It acts as a solvent, transporting nutrients and removing waste. It helps regulate body temperature through sweating and respiration. A lack of water leads to dehydration, causing symptoms like fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function. Chronic dehydration can strain the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney stones. It also affects skin health, leading to dryness and reduced elasticity.

Dietary Fibre's Role and Consequences of Inadequate Intake: Dietary fibre is crucial for digestive health. It promotes regular bowel movements by adding bulk to the stool, preventing constipation. It also feeds beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to a healthy gut microbiome. Furthermore, fibre helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose and can lower cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol in the digestive system. A diet low in fibre can result in constipation, diverticular disease (inflammation of pouches in the colon), and an increased risk of developing colon cancer. It can also negatively impact blood sugar control and increase the risk of heart disease.