Question

Much of the elegant molecular machinery that exists in every cell is dedicated to the production and utilization of the energy required for an organism to maintain the living state. How much food must an animal eat every day to maintain health? Why does the brain consume energy even when resting?

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Answer 1

A balanced diet, as the name clearly signifies, is one that provides a proper balance of nutrients and minerals that the human body needs to function at its best. Having said that, a balanced diet, therefore, contains six vital nutrient groups, namely carbohydrates, proteins, lipids or fats, vitamins, minerals, and water, all of which are required in appropriate quantities to maintain good health.

Age 2-3 years: Fruit and vegetables 4, Grains 3, Milk (and alternatives) 2, Meat (and alternatives) 1.

Age 4-8 years: Fruit and vegetables 5, Grains 4, Milk (and alternatives) 2, Meat (and alternatives) 1.

Age 9-13 years: Fruit and vegetables 6, Grains 6, Milk (and alternatives) 3-4, Meat (and alternatives) 1-2.

Age 14-18 years (male): Fruit and vegetables 8, Grains 7, Milk (and alternatives) 3-4, Meat (and alternatives) 3.

Age 14-18 years (female): Fruit and vegetables 7, Grains 6, Milk (and alternatives) 3-4, Meat (and alternatives) 2.

Age 19-50 years (male): Fruit and vegetables 8-10, Grains 8, Milk (and alternatives) 2, Meat or alternatives 3.

Age 19-50 years (female): Fruit and vegetable 7-8, Grains 6-7, Milk (and alternatives) 2, Meat (and alternatives) 2.

Age 51+ years (male): Fruit and vegetables 7, Grains 7, Milk (and alternatives) 3, Meat (and alternatives) 3.

Age 51+ years (female): Fruit and vegetables 7, Grains 6, Milk (and alternatives) 3, Meat (and alternatives) 3.

The brain uses about 20% of the body's total energy. The extra energy consumed by the brain in REM sleep is balanced out by the less energy used by the skeletal muscles that are paralyzed during REM.