Nutrition

Nutrient Types

Nutrition is the process by which organisms obtain, and break down, the nutrients they need to survive, grow, and carry out all of their bodily functions.
The term nutrients refers to the substances required by the body for its survival, which are usually taken in through the diet.
Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are the main macronutrients that provide energy. Carbohydrates and fats give energy quickly, while proteins give energy slowly.
Vitamins and minerals are considered micronutrients and are needed in smaller amounts, but they are still crucial for specific body functions.

Humans are omnivores, meaning they consume a mixed diet of both herbivorous (plant) and carnivorous (animal) food sources.
A balanced diet should contain the correct proportions of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water.
Dietary fibre or roughage is included in this list, important for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

When we eat or drink, food is broken down in the digestive system into small, soluble molecules which can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
Carbohydrates are digested into simple sugars, proteins into amino acids, and fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
These nutrients are then transported to body cells, where they are used to create new substances that the body needs for growth, repair, and energy.

Malnutrition occurs when a person’s diet does not provide the right amount of nutrients for good health and development or when the body cannot properly process nutrients.
Either lack or excess of certain nutrients can cause malnutrition.
Malnutrition can lead to serious health issues, including stunted growth, weak immune systems, and even death.

All the chemical reactions that occur within an organism to maintain life are collectively called metabolism.
Metabolism involves the conversion of nutrients into energy and the building of proteins, nucleic acids, and other compounds.

Plants are autotrophs, as they can manufacture their own food using water, carbon dioxide, and sunlight in a process called photosynthesis.
Plants also need minerals like nitrates for the production of proteins and magnesium for the formation of chlorophyll.