What is Nutrition?
Nutrition means that the food we eat, and our body cells absorb nutrients from it which gives us perfect health. Health as defined by WHO (World Health Organization) is Physical, Mental, Emotional and Social wellness of a Person. Nutrition and Health are two sides of the coin. We all want good health, but many people fail to achieve it or maintain it. So, we can say that Nutrition = Proper Ingestion, Digestion, Absorption and Metabolism. Let us understand food and a balanced diet first.
What is Food?
Food, either in solid or liquid form, is the basic necessity of life. When swallowed and digested, it provides nutrients to the cells of the body which provides good health. Food can be used as medicine. to know more about “How can be food used as medicine”, read this article, https://sparklinglifestyle.in/food-as-medicine/ Food is responsible for giving energy and growth, repairing the tissues and organs health. Food also protects from diseases, so it is not just food but is also a medicine. Food regulates body functions and updates all systems of our body.
What is a balanced diet?
A balanced diet includes a variety of food in adequate amounts and proper proportion of daily requirements of the body. These requirements include all nutrients like protein, carbohydrate, fats, vitamins, minerals, water and fiber. Healthy and balanced diet promotes a healthy body.
What is in our Food?
We enjoy eating our food because of its taste, smell and the pleasure and comfort it gives us. We find the following nutrients in our food. Macronutrients, Micronutrients, Phytonutrients (found in plants), Zoo nutrients (found in animal foods), Water Macronutrients are the nutrients that our body needs in large amounts and gives us energy. They contain the components of food that our body needs to maintain its system and structures.
We need all these macronutrients as a part of a healthy diet, so we should not restrict any of them. They are mainly carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Carbohydrates form the primary source of energy for our body. Fats play a vital role in maintaining good health and Proteins are important for body cell functioning and muscle mass growth.
Micronutrients can be classified into vitamins and minerals. These are essential for healthy growth and development of the body. Whole grains that contain fiber, carbohydrates and proteins along with Vitamin E, B-complex and healthy fats. For example, when wheat is converted into Maida, as many as 25 nutrients are removed in the refinement process. Some minerals such as zinc, chromium, manganese is lost. Especially soil and water plants contain minerals. Our bones and teeth are made up of minerals. Our body also needs minerals such as sodium, potassium to contract and relax muscles.
When we eat minimally processed food, we get all types of vitamins and minerals but when we eat packaged, processed food like pizza, burger, Chinese, chips, biscuits, noodles, etc. we get only unhealthy fats and carbohydrates, so we get bulky and also suffer from food cravings. Additionally, our body goes under nutrition which is known as nutrition deficiency.
Nutrition and Health:
Nutrition plays a crucial role in preventing and managing diseases like diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers. Adequate nutrition supports immune system function. Nutrition influences more cognitive function and mental well-being.
Nutritional Concepts:
- Consuming a variety of foods to meet nutritional needs.
- Energy balance between consumption and expenditure.
- Foods providing essential nutrients per calorie.
- Measure carbohydrate impact on blood sugar levels.
Conclusion:
Remember, nutrition is a complex and evolving field. Consult registered dietitian and nutritious for personalized guidance. Hope this article has helped you understand the concept of “Nutrition”. Do share your thoughts in the comment section. If you find this post helpful do share it with others. For more such important and useful information, keep visiting our website and follow us on social media for getting regular updates.
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