Food digestion represents a complex physiological process involving a combination of physiochemical processes (Livovsky et al., 2020). Initiated by food intake, this process encompasses the breakdown of food into simpler components, absorption of nutrients, transportation to relevant organs for absorption, and the elimination of waste through the anus or bladder (Sensoy, 2021).

This article explores the Digestion Lab, focusing on estimating an individual’s daily caloric intake, discussing normal values, and providing a percentage calculation with explanations. Additionally, it includes details on serving size, calories, sodium, carbohydrates, vitamins, proteins, and minerals in a chosen food item. An analysis based on labeled packaging descriptions, along with the pros and cons of the items, is also presented.

Daily Caloric Intake

Calories measure the energy absorbed from food breakdown, vital for various bodily functions. Recommended daily caloric intake is around 2000 calories for women and 2500 for men, subject to variations based on factors such as age, metabolism, and physical activity (Kolte et al., 2022). Adequate calorie intake is crucial for health, with insufficient intake leading to lethargy and excess contributing to obesity, heart disease, and arthritis (Osilla & Sharma, 2019). Pregnant or lactating women may need increased calorie intake to support fetal and placental tissue growth (Most et al., 2019).

Percentage of Daily Calories

Examining Crazy Richards Peanut Butter as the chosen food item, the recommended serving size is 1-2 tbsp (32g) with 180 calories. While fat content is 16g, protein is 8g, falling slightly below recommended fat intake. The article emphasizes maintaining a daily fat percentage of 25-35% to ensure a healthy heart, as recommended by the American Heart Association. Additionally, it provides information on calcium, iron, and protein requirements based on USDA guidelines (U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2020).

Pros and Cons of the Serving Size

Crazy Richard’s Crunchy Peanut Butter, a protein-rich option, is recommended in 2 tbsp servings. While it enhances the flavor of various foods, excess consumption may contribute to weight gain due to its polyunsaturated fat content. The label’s disclosure of 180 calories per serving is advantageous, signifying rich nutritional value.

Pros and Cons of the Food’s Sodium, Carbohydrate, Sugar, Protein, Vitamins, and Minerals

The label analysis reveals 16g of fat and 8g of protein, slightly below recommended amounts. The peanut butter contains 0% sodium, 2g sugar, 5g total carbs (3g dietary fiber, 2g sugar), and provides essential minerals as per USDA guidelines. Pros include nutritional minerals, while cons may arise when combined with sugary foods.

Label Analysis and Food Item Pros and Cons

Peanut butter, a versatile ingredient, offers nutritional benefits but may contribute to excessive sugar intake in certain preparations, leading to potential health concerns.

How to Improve Misleading Packaging

Addressing misleading packaging, the article advocates for ethical considerations, emphasizing consumer rights and the need for accurate information on food labels to promote a healthier population (Schifferstein et al., 2021).

Conclusion

In summary, the Digestion Lab assessment focused on daily caloric intake, examined a selected food item (Crazy Richards, Crunchy Peanut Butter), and discussed its pros and cons. The article emphasized the importance of accurate food labels for consumer awareness and health.

References

Kolte, A., Mahajan, Y., & Vasa, L. (2022). Balanced diet and daily calorie consumption: Consumer attitude during the COVID-19 pandemic from an emerging economy. PLOS ONE, 17(8).

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0270843

Livovsky, D. M., Pribic, T., & Azpiroz, F. (2020). Food, eating, and the gastrointestinal tract. Nutrients, 12(4), 986.

https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12040986

Most, J., Dervis, S., Haman, F., Adamo, K. B., & Redman, L. M. (2019). Energy intake requirements in pregnancy. Nutrients, 11(8), 1812.

https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11081812

Osilla, E. V., & Sharma, S. (2019, June 18). Calories. Nih.gov; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499909/

BIO FPX 1000 Assessment 4 Digestion Lab

Prada, M., Saraiva, M., Garrido, M. V., Rodrigues, D. L., & Lopes, D. (2020). Knowledge about sugar sources and sugar intake guidelines in Portuguese consumers. Nutrients, 12(12), 3888.

https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12123888

Schifferstein, H. N. J., de Boer, A., & Lemke, M. (2021). Conveying information through food packaging: A literature review comparing legislation with consumer perception. Journal of Functional Foods, 86, 104734.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2021.104734

Sensoy, I. (2021). A review on the food digestion in the digestive tract and the used in vitro models. Current Research in Food Science, 4, 308–319. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crfs.2021.04.004

U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2020). Protein Foods | MyPlate. Www.myplate.gov. https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/protein-foods

BIO FPX 1000 Assessment 4 Digestion Lab