Concepts of Nutritional Health

Nutritional Health Definition: This refers to the state of well-being in relation to food and nutrients intake. It is determined by the balance between nutrient intake and nutrient requirements.
Balanced Diet: A diet composed of the correct quantities of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, vitamins, minerals, fibre and water: needed to maintain good health and development.
Macronutrients: These are nutrients that the body needs in large amounts. They include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Micronutrients: These are nutrients the body needs in smaller amounts. They include vitamins and minerals.
Understanding Dietary Requirements: Different individuals have different dietary needs due to age, gender, lifestyle and health status.
Importance of Water: Water is necessary for all bodily functions, including temperature regulation and transportation of nutrients.
Digestion and Absorption: Nutrients are broken down in the digestive system and absorbed into the bloodstream.
Malnutrition: This refers to inadequate, excess, or unbalanced consumption of nutrients leading to health problems.
Obesity and Overweight: Conditions characterised by excessive body fat resulting from consuming more calories than is expended.
Effects of Micronutrient Deficiency: Lack of vitamins and minerals can cause various health problems such as anaemia, scurvy, and rickets.
Role of Fibre in the Diet: Dietary fibre aids in maintaining bowel health, lowering cholesterol levels, and controlling blood sugar levels.
Different Dietary Models: Examples include the Mediterranean diet, the vegan diet, and the palaeolithic diet, which each have specific guidelines for nutrient intake.
Impact of Lifestyle Factors: Activity level, alcohol intake, smoking, stress and sleep can all affect nutritional health.
Common Dietary-Related Health Conditions: These include diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and some types of cancer.
Nutritional Adaptations: Changes the body makes in response to the diet, such as increasing metabolism due to high protein intake.
Nutritional Health and Policy: How policies influence the food and drink choices available, helping to promote a healthier population.