All questions of Animal Nutrition for JAMB Exam

Water-Soluble Vitamin: Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, which means it dissolves in water and is easily absorbed by the body. This vitamin plays a crucial role in the formation of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and proper nerve function.

Key Points:
- Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body in large amounts, so they need to be consumed regularly through diet or supplements.
- Vitamin B12 is commonly found in animal products such as meat, fish, dairy, and eggs.
- Deficiency of vitamin B12 can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, anemia, and nerve damage.
- It is important for vegetarians and vegans to ensure they are getting enough vitamin B12 through fortified foods or supplements, as plant-based sources are limited.

In conclusion, Vitamin B12 is a crucial water-soluble vitamin that plays a significant role in various bodily functions. It is important to consume an adequate amount of B12 through diet to maintain overall health and well-being.

Building Blocks of Proteins

Proteins are complex molecules made up of smaller units called amino acids. These amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are essential for various biological functions in the body.

Amino Acids

Amino acids are organic compounds that contain an amino group (-NH2) and a carboxyl group (-COOH). There are 20 different amino acids that can combine in different sequences to form a wide variety of proteins.

Peptide Bonds

When amino acids link together, they form peptide bonds. These bonds connect the amino group of one amino acid to the carboxyl group of another, creating a chain called a polypeptide.

Protein Structure

The sequence of amino acids in a protein determines its unique structure and function. Proteins can have four levels of structure: primary (amino acid sequence), secondary (alpha helices and beta sheets), tertiary (3D folding), and quaternary (multiple polypeptide chains).

Functions of Proteins

Proteins play crucial roles in the body, such as enzyme catalysis, cell signaling, immune response, muscle contraction, and structural support. They are essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues.

In conclusion, amino acids are the fundamental building blocks of proteins. Their specific sequence and arrangement determine the structure and function of proteins in the body. Understanding the role of amino acids in protein synthesis is essential for studying various biological processes.

Understanding Complex Carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates are polysaccharides, which are made up of long chains of sugar molecules. They are typically found in whole foods and provide a sustained source of energy. Here’s a breakdown of the options provided:
Options Explained:

• Fructose: This is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) found in fruits. It is not a complex carbohydrate.
• Lactose: Known as milk sugar, lactose is a disaccharide composed of glucose and galactose. While it is not a simple sugar, it is still classified as a sugar and not a complex carbohydrate.
• Sucrose: Commonly known as table sugar, sucrose is also a disaccharide made up of glucose and fructose. Like lactose, it falls under the category of simple carbohydrates.
• Starch: Starch is a polysaccharide and the correct answer. It is composed of numerous glucose units linked together and serves as a primary energy storage form in plants. Foods rich in starch include potatoes, rice, and corn.

Why Starch is a Complex Carbohydrate:

• Structure: Starch has a complex molecular structure, consisting of long chains of glucose molecules.
• Energy Source: It provides a slow and steady release of energy, making it a healthier choice compared to simple sugars.
• Digestibility: Complex carbohydrates like starch take longer to digest, contributing to prolonged satiety and better blood sugar control.

In summary, among the options given, starch is the only complex carbohydrate, making option 'D' the correct answer.