Nutrion and health

Nutrion and health

Nutrition is the study of nutrients in food, how the body uses them, and the relationship between diet, health, and disease.

Why does it matter?

Nutrients provide nourishment. Proteins, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water are all nutrients. If people do not have the right balance of nutrients in their diet, their risk of developing certain health conditions increases.

Macronutrients

• Carbohydrates

• Proteins

• Fats

• Water

Carbohydrates

• Sugars are simple carbs. The body quickly breaks down and absorbs sugars and processed starch. They can provide rapid energy.

• Fiber is also a carbohydrate. The body breaks down some types of fiber and uses them for energy.

• Fiber and unprocessed starch are complex carbs. It takes the body some time to break down and absorb complex carbs. After eating fiber, a person will feel full for longer. 

Proteins

• There are 20 amino acids.

• Some foods provide complete protein, which means they contain all the essential amino acids the body needs. Other foods contain various combinations of amino acids.

• Most plant-based foods do not contain complete protein, so a person who follows a vegan diet needs to eat a range of foods throughout the day that provides the essential amino acids.

Fats

• lubricating joints

• helping organs produce hormones

• enabling the body to absorb certain vitamins

• preserving brain health