What is Nutrition?

Understanding the Basics

Nutrition is the science of how your body uses food to stay healthy. It involves the intake, digestion, absorption, and metabolism of nutrients. Nutrients are substances that provide energy and building blocks for your body. They include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Good nutrition is essential for good health. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, and improve your overall well-being.

The Importance of a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet includes a variety of foods from all food groups. It should be low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. It should also be high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Eating a healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight. It can also reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.

The Role of Nutrients

Nutrients are essential for good health. They provide energy, build and repair tissues, and regulate bodily functions.

• Carbohydrates provide energy for your body.
• Proteins build and repair tissues.
• Fats provide energy and help your body absorb vitamins.
• Vitamins are essential for a variety of bodily functions.
• Minerals are essential for a variety of bodily functions.

Getting the Nutrients You Need

You can get the nutrients you need by eating a healthy diet. Include a variety of foods from all food groups in your diet.

If you have any dietary restrictions, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can help you create a diet that meets your individual needs.

Making Healthy Choices

Making healthy choices about what you eat can help you improve your health and well-being.

• Choose whole grains over refined grains.
• Choose lean protein sources.
• Choose fruits and vegetables over processed foods.
• Limit your intake of unhealthy fats.
• Drink plenty of water.

Making healthy choices about what you eat doesn't have to be difficult. With a little planning and effort, you can make good nutrition a part of your life.

Define Nutrition