What is it?
Nutrition is the process of obtaining and using nutrients to support energy production, growth, tissue maintenance, and normal body function.
Nutritional requirements differ based on age, activity, medical conditions, and individual needs.
Essential Nutrients
| Nutrient | Primary Functions | Food Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Provide energy; fiber supports digestion | Grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes |
| Proteins | Build and repair tissues; support muscles and enzymes | Meat, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, soy |
| Fats | Supply energy and support cell membranes and vitamin absorption | Oils, nuts, seeds, fish |
| Vitamins | Support metabolism and normal body functions | Fruits, vegetables, animal and fortified foods |
| Minerals | Support bones, nerves, oxygen transport, and other functions | Dairy, vegetables, legumes, meats |
| Water | Supports circulation, temperature control, and waste removal | Water, beverages, water-containing foods |
Calories: Units of energy supplied by foods and beverages.
Carbohydrates
- Sugars and starches can provide glucose for energy.
- Fiber supports bowel regularity and can help regulate cholesterol and blood glucose.
- Different carbohydrate sources have different nutritional characteristics.
Proteins
- Made from amino acids.
- Required for tissue repair, muscle maintenance, and many body functions.
- Particularly important when supporting residents at risk of malnutrition or delayed wound healing.
Fats
- Unsaturated fats are found in foods such as nuts, seeds, and many plant oils.
- Saturated fats are found in some animal products and tropical oils.
- Excess LDL cholesterol is associated with cardiovascular risk.
- Dietary cholesterol and blood LDL cholesterol are related but are not the same thing.
Vitamins
Water-Soluble Vitamins:
- Vitamin C.
- B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), B6, folate (B9), and B12.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins:
- A, D, E, and K.
Fat-soluble vitamins can accumulate in the body; excessive supplementation may cause toxicity.
Important Minerals
| Mineral | Function |
|---|---|
| Calcium | Bone health, muscle contraction, nerve signaling |
| Iron | Hemoglobin formation and oxygen transport |
| Magnesium | Muscle and nerve function |
| Zinc | Immune function and wound healing |
| Folate (vitamin B9) | DNA synthesis and red blood cell development |
Note: Folate is a vitamin, not a mineral, but is included here to connect with your course’s nutrient table.
Food Groups
USDA MyPlate includes:
- Fruits.
- Vegetables.
- Grains.
- Protein foods.
- Dairy and fortified alternatives.
Portions and food choices depend on individualized nutritional needs rather than one serving target for every adult.
Why Does It Matter Clinically?
Inadequate nutrition may contribute to:
- Unintentional weight loss.
- Weakness and reduced muscle mass.
- Poor wound healing.
- Reduced functional ability.
- Nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition.
Recognition and Assessment
Observe and report:
- Reduced appetite or persistent poor intake.
- Unexpected weight changes.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Problems accessing or handling food.
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Changes in ability to feed independently.
Care Considerations
- Encourage food and fluid intake according to the care plan.
- Support independence and food preferences.
- Observe and document intake when assigned.
- Follow prescribed diets and swallowing precautions.
- Do not independently prescribe supplements or modify the diet.
- Report persistent poor intake or suspected malnutrition.
Connections
- Fluid Balance
- Dehydration
- Therapeutic Diets
- Assisting with Feeding
- Skin Integrity & Breakdown Prevention
Sources
- CNA Module 11 — Nutrition
- USDA — MyPlate
- MedlinePlus — Nutrition
- Resident-specific nutrition and hydration care plan
Flashcards
What are the six major nutrient categories?01-foundations / anatomy-physiology / foundations
Carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.
What is the primary function of dietary protein?01-foundations / anatomy-physiology / foundations
Building, maintaining, and repairing body tissues.
Which vitamins are fat-soluble?01-foundations / anatomy-physiology / foundations
A, D, E, and K.
Which vitamins are water-soluble?01-foundations / anatomy-physiology / foundations
B vitamins and vitamin C.
Why is nutrition important for wound healing?02-mechanisms / anatomy-physiology / foundations
Tissue repair requires adequate energy, protein, and nutrients.
What should a CNA do when a resident has persistent poor intake?03-application / anatomy-physiology / foundations
Document observations and notify the nurse.