Edexcel iGCSE Biology-2.24 balanced diet- Study Notes- New Syllabus
Edexcel iGCSE Biology-2.24 balanced diet- Study Notes- New syllabus
Edexcel iGCSE Biology-2.24 balanced diet- Study Notes -Edexcel iGCSE Biology – per latest Syllabus.
Key Concepts:
2.24 understand that a balanced diet should include appropriate proportions of carbohydrate, protein, lipid, vitamins, minerals, water and dietary fibre
Balanced Diet
📝 Introduction
A balanced diet = eating the right amounts of all essential nutrients so the body works properly.
It is not just about eating food – it’s about eating in correct proportions.
🔑 Main Components of a Balanced Diet
Carbohydrates
- Main source of energy.
- Examples: rice, bread, pasta, potatoes.
Proteins
- Needed for growth, repair and enzymes/hormones.
- Examples: meat, fish, beans, eggs.
Lipids (fats & oils)
- Source of energy (store more than carbs).
- Provide insulation and protect organs.
- Examples: butter, oils, nuts.
Vitamins
- Needed in small amounts for health.
- Examples: Vitamin C (healing, prevents scurvy), Vitamin D (bones).
Minerals
- Important for body functions.
- Examples: Iron (makes haemoglobin), Calcium (bones & teeth).
Water
- Makes up ~70% of body.
- Needed for transport, chemical reactions, temperature control.
Dietary Fibre
- From plant cell walls (cellulose).
- Adds bulk to food → keeps gut contents moving → prevents constipation.
📊 Balanced Diet = Correct Proportions
| Nutrient | Function | Example Foods |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Energy | Rice, bread, pasta |
| Proteins | Growth & repair | Meat, beans, fish |
| Lipids | Energy, insulation | Oil, butter, nuts |
| Vitamins | Health | Fruits, vegetables |
| Minerals | Body functions | Milk (Ca), red meat (Fe) |
| Water | Transport, reactions | Drinks, fruits |
| Fibre | Digestive health | Vegetables, whole grains |
🎯Tips
- “Balanced” means all nutrients in correct proportion, not equal amounts.
- Deficiency = disease (Vitamin C → scurvy, Iron → anaemia, Fibre → constipation).
⚡ Quick Recap
Carbs = energy.
Protein = growth & repair.
Lipids = stored energy + insulation.
Vitamins = small amounts, health.
Minerals = strong bones, blood, etc.
Water = life medium.
Fibre = healthy digestion.