Thiamin is a component of the coenzyme thiamin pyrophosphate which plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism.2
Riboflavin
The main function of riboflavin is the maintenance of energy production in the form of FAD.1
Niacin
Niacin takes form as NAD+ in cellular respiration which plays an important role in energy production. It is also crucial for the biosynthesis of fatty acids.2
Pantothenic acid
Pantothenic acid takes form as CoA in the Krebs’ cycle, which plays a role in energy production. Its other functions are the biosynthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol and amino acids, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters to promote the nervous system to function normally.2
Pyridoxine
Pyridoxine plays a role in maintaining protein metabolism and cognitive function, especially in memory.2
Folate
Folate plays a role in the synthesis of DNA, in the growth and replication of cells, prevention of neural tube defect from happening and in lowering blood homocysteine levels.1
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Menarche6
a. Menarche when a girl experiences her first menstruation. Girls who are undernourished may reach menarche later than those who are adequately nourished due to the sufficient available energy.
2. Growth rate6
a. Malnutrition may cause stunting, causing the growth rate of adolescent to become slower. This results in body weight, arm circumference, height and BMI different from well nourished adolescents with a normal growth rate.
Eating disorders
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia is when one starves him/herself to experience excessive weight loss. 90%-95% of the population suffering this disorder are girls and women and is more common in adolescent females. The cause for anorexia nervosa is multifactorial and is divided into psychological and environmental factors:8
Physiological factors:8
1. Depression and anxiety
2. Inability to cope with stress
3. Anxiety problem (mostly of the future)
4. Being under the demand of certain goals and standards (pressure of perfectionism)
5. Emotional