Introduction to nutrients and their roles in the body

Introduction to Nutrients and Their Roles in the Body

What are nutrients?

  • Nutrients are substances derived from food that are needed for the body’s growth, maintenance, and repair.
  • They are classified into two groups, macronutrients and micronutrients.

Macronutrients

  • These are nutrients the body requires in larger amounts, namely proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

Proteins

  • Proteins are critical for cellular structure, functions of blood, hormones, and enzymes, and necessary for growth and repair.
  • They are made up of amino acids, some of which the body cannot synthesise and must be sourced from the diet.

Carbohydrates

  • Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy; they power critical functions like your heartbeat, brain activity, and breathing.
  • Simple carbohydrates offer quick energy and are found in fruits and milk. Complex carbohydrates offer a sustained energy source and are found in breads, cereals, and vegetables.

Fats

  • Fats also provide energy and are necessary for vitamin absorption, hormone production, and insulation.
  • They are divided into two main categories: saturated (found primarily in animal products) and unsaturated (found in vegetables, nuts, and seed oils).

Micronutrients

  • These comprise of vitamins and minerals which are needed in smaller quantities.

Vitamins

  • Vitamins are essential compounds needed for growth, function, and health.
  • They can be fat soluble (Vitamins A, D, E and K) or water soluble (B vitamins and vitamin C).

Minerals

  • Minerals, like calcium, iron and zinc, are inorganic substances that the body needs to perform various functions like bone formation, transporting oxygen to cells, and supporting the immune system.

Importance of a Balanced Intake of Nutrients

  • The body requires all these nutrients in the right quantities for optimal health.
  • An imbalance, be it an excess or deficiency, can lead to serious health issues.
  • A balanced diet that contains all these nutrients is key to maintaining good physical and mental health. It also aids in muscle development which is beneficial for physical activity and sports.