The human body after a chemical analysis can be reduced into its final constituents. The analysis of the dead body is completed with little difficulty, while the analysis of the constituents of the living body is a most complicated and arduous task. The former procedure is called chemic anatomy, while the latter is termed chemic physiology.
The analysis of the human body will disclose the fact that it contains liquid and solid compounds which belong to both the organic and inorganic chemical and plant world. These compounds derived from a proximate analysis are termed proximate principles. However, to deserve this term they must be obtained in the form in which they exist in the living body.
The organic compounds consist of carbohydrates, fatty and protein groups of organic bodies; the inorganic compounds consist of water, various acids, and inorganic salts.
Chemic Elements Found in the Human Body: Oxygen, 72 per cent.; hydrogen, 9.1; nitrogen, 2.5; carbon, 13.5; phosphorus, 1.15; calcium, 1.3; sulphur, 0.147; sodium, 0.1; potassium, 0.026; chlorin, 0.085; fluorin, iron, silicon, magnesium, iodine, in small amounts.
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS The Carbohydrates... (continues with detailed descriptions of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and inorganic compounds)
Key Takeaways
- The human body is composed of organic and inorganic elements.
- Carbohydrates, fats, proteins are essential nutrients found in the body.
- Water makes up a significant portion (75-90%) of the human body weight.
Practical Tips
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates for energy.
- Ensure adequate intake of water to support bodily functions.
- Incorporate proteins into your meals to aid tissue repair and growth.
Warnings & Risks
- Overconsumption of fats can lead to health issues such as obesity.
- Ignoring proper hydration can result in dehydration, affecting overall health.
Modern Application
Understanding the chemical composition of the human body is crucial for survival preparedness. While modern nutritional science has advanced, knowing which elements and compounds are essential remains vital for maintaining bodily functions during emergencies or when resources are limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What percentage of the human body is made up of water?
Water comprises approximately 75 to 90 percent of a person's weight, making it one of the most important inorganic substances essential for life.
Q: Which carbohydrates are found in fruits and honey?
Dextrose (glucose) is commonly found in fruits such as grapes, peaches, figs, cherries, mulberries, strawberries, etc., and also in honey. Levulose or fruit-sugar is associated with dextrose as a constituent of sweet fruits and honey.
Q: What are the main components of fats found in animals?
The fat found in animals consists of three neutral fats: stearin, palmitin, and olein. Each fat is derived from glycerin and an acid indicated by its name (e.g., oleic acid for olein).