Given the diversity of animal life on our planet, it is not surprising that the animal diet would also vary substantially. The animal diet is the source of materials needed for building DNA and other complex molecules needed for growth, maintenance, and reproduction; collectively these processes are called biosynthesis. The diet is also the source of materials for ATP production in the cells. The diet must be balanced to provide the minerals and vitamins that are required for cellular function.

Food Requirements

What are the fundamental requirements of the animal diet? The animal diet should be well balanced and provide nutrients required for bodily function and the minerals and vitamins required for maintaining structure and regulation necessary for good health and reproductive capability. These requirements for a human are illustrated graphically in Figure

Healthy diet logo shows a plate divided into four sections, labeled “fruits”, “vegetables” “grains,” and “protein”. The vegetables section is slightly larger than the other three. A circle to the side of the plate is labeled “dairy”. Beneath the plate is the web address “Choose My Plate dot gov”. For humans, a balanced diet includes fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein. (credit: USDA)

Complete the tasks on the list below:

Read the following page in the OpenStax textbook

Nutrition and Energy Production

Read the entire page
Take the time to read about healthy eating on the My Plate website. While on this site read about proteins, grains, dairy, fruits, and vegetables

Use the Glossary at the bottom of the page to help with the vocabulary for this week
Use the Review Questions and Free Response questions to check for understanding

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