Human Cell Structure and Nutrition

Human Cell Structure

Cell Components

Human cells consist of three main structures:

• Plasma Membrane: The outer membrane protecting the cell, regulating nutrient intake and waste removal.
• Cytoplasm: A water-based solution containing dissolved substances and protein fibers forming the cytoskeleton. Organelles within the cytoplasm include ribosomes, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, vacuoles, and lysosomes.
• Nucleus: The spherical control center containing:
  • Nuclear Membrane: Separates the nucleus from the cytoplasm.
  • Nucleoplasm: The watery solution inside the nucleus.
  • Chromatin: Genetic material (DNA) responsible for cell control, organized into chromosomes.
  • Nucleolus: Composed of RNA and proteins, responsible for ribosome organization.

Nutrition and Food

Nutrients and Their Role

Nutrition is the process of acquiring and using substances needed for energy, growth, and life functions. Nutrients are the substances obtained from food that provide this energy and building materials.

Our diet consists of the foods we consume to obtain these essential nutrients.

Types of Nutrients

Inorganic Nutrients

These nutrients can be sourced from both plants and animals.

• Water: The most abundant component of living organisms (60-80% of body weight), essential for various functions.
• Minerals: Obtained through food, primarily from fruits and vegetables, with regulatory and structural roles.

Organic Nutrients

These nutrients are derived from living sources (plants or animals).

• Carbohydrates: The primary source of immediate energy. Examples include glucose, sucrose, cellulose (found in plants), and starch (found in potatoes, cereals, and legumes).