Complete the following map summarizing the nutritional needs of animals that are met by a healthy diet.

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Step 1: Identify the three main needs satisfied by a healthy diet. These are energy (a), building molecules of cells (b), and essential nutrients (c).

Step 2: For energy (a), too much energy intake leads to obesity (d), while insufficient energy intake leads to undernutrition, which is a type of malnutrition (g).

Step 3: For building molecules of cells (b), nutrients are required to synthesize proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. A lack of these nutrients can lead to undernutrition and protein deficiency.

Step 4: For essential nutrients (c), these include essential fatty acids and vitamins (e). A lack of these nutrients can result in deficiencies that affect coenzymes, ion balances, nerve functions, and bone structure.

Step 5: Minerals (f) are also essential nutrients that play roles in various functions such as enzyme activation, maintaining ion balances, and supporting bone structure. A lack of minerals can lead to deficiencies with significant physiological impacts.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Nutritional Needs

Animals require a balanced diet to meet their nutritional needs, which typically include macronutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, as well as micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. These nutrients are essential for energy production, growth, and overall health. A deficiency or excess of any of these can lead to health issues, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded diet.

Protein Deficiency

Protein deficiency occurs when an organism does not consume enough protein to meet its physiological needs. Proteins are crucial for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. In animals, a lack of protein can lead to undernutrition, stunted growth, and weakened immune responses, highlighting the need for adequate protein intake in a healthy diet.

Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are types of polyunsaturated fats that the body cannot synthesize and must be obtained through diet. They play vital roles in brain function, cell structure, and the regulation of inflammation. A deficiency in EFAs can lead to various health problems, including impaired cognitive function and skin issues, underscoring their importance in a balanced diet.

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