Nutrients
“Nutrients are essential substances required by the body for energy, growth, and maintenance.”
Introduction
Nutrients are chemical substances found in food that help in the growth, repair, and maintenance of the body. They are essential for survival and maintaining good health.
Types of Nutrients
- 1. Carbohydrates: Provide energy (e.g., rice, wheat, sugar).
- 2. Proteins: Help in body-building and repair (e.g., pulses, eggs, meat).
- 3. Fats: Provide energy and help in absorption of vitamins (e.g., oil, butter).
- 4. Vitamins: Regulate body functions (e.g., A, B, C, D, E, K).
- 5. Minerals: Essential for body processes (e.g., calcium, iron, potassium).
- 6. Water: Maintains hydration and regulates body temperature.
- 7. Roughage (Dietary Fiber): Aids in digestion (e.g., fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
Important Points
- Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy.
- Proteins are made up of amino acids.
- Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin in presence of sunlight.
- Iron is important for the formation of hemoglobin in blood.
- Deficiency of Vitamin C causes scurvy; Vitamin D deficiency causes rickets.