Nutrients provide energy, building materials and vital process regulation in the body. Based on their biochemical properties, nutrients are divided into six classes, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, water and vitamins.
Nutrient deficiencies can produce various symptoms and illnesses, with some more serious than others; additionally, certain nutrients are toxic in large doses and should therefore be consumed cautiously.
Vitamins
Vitamins are organic substances the body requires in small amounts for proper functioning. We consume these vitamins through food daily, and 13 varieties have been identified; 8 water-soluble B vitamins can be absorbed through digestion while any extra can be stored away in liver tissue and fat tissue reserves; while four fat-soluble A, D, E and K vitamins (intake with fat intake) remain stored within for days to months as reserves.
Vitamins serve multiple functions, from strengthening bones to supporting immunity and turning food into energy. Their alphabet soup of names may be unsettling, but vitamins are an integral component of keeping you healthy.
Minerals
Minerals are essential elements found in food that our bodies need in order to function optimally, contributing significantly to immunity. Mineral deficiency is generally rare as a well-balanced diet can often provide adequate supply. However, sometimes extra supplementation may be required under medical advice – and corrective nutrient supplementation may be recommended for some situations.
There are over 5800 known minerals. They can be described by their chemical composition, crystal structure and physical properties such as colour, streak, lustre, tenacity, cleavage fracture parting specific gravity magnetic fluorescence radioactivity classification by shape habit texture ability to conduct heat or electricity refractive index double refraction and piezoelectricity (the ability of minerals to generate electric charges when subjected to pressure). Some minerals contain only one element; these are called native elements & include metals gemstones & simple ores
Carbohydrates
Carbs are our body’s main energy source, providing four calories per gram. Additionally, carbohydrates contain fiber – an important nutrient which regulates blood sugar and helps you feel full – making a diet rich in natural carbohydrates such as fruits, whole grains, vegetables and milk products the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. Avoid foods containing added sugars which could contribute to overeating and weight gain.
Body tissues use carbs as fuel for cells to function. Once converted to glucose, this form of energy provides instantaneous fuel or stored away as glycogen in liver and muscles as fuel later. Glucose provides essential energy sources for brain and muscle activity and should therefore be considered part of a healthy diet alongside fats and proteins. Despite their poor reputation, carbohydrates remain crucial components in an efficient and healthful diet plan.
Fats
Fats are a concentrated source of energy and help transport, store, absorb, protect the skeleton and nervous system, provide insulation and form cell membranes. Fats are composed of triglycerides (TGs) with fatty acids attached to a glycerol backbone; food sources generally classify these fats into three categories depending on double bond formation and chain length: saturated, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats depending on double bonds; healthful examples include olive oil, canola oil avocado nuts & seeds versus unhealthy ones such as lard tallow suet & butter while processed meats, fried foods & baked goods contain high concentrations of saturated and trans fatty fats!
Fiber
Fiber, the staple nutrient for good bowel health, is an indigestible carbohydrate your body can’t process and one reason whole plant foods are such great choices for your wellbeing.
Studies show that these medications can lower cholesterol levels, thus decreasing your risk of fatty streaks and plaque in your arteries, promote normal blood sugar levels after meals and may even help with weight loss if this is an issue for you.
Dietary fiber serves a crucial purpose: feeding healthy bacteria in your colon. Soluble fiber turns into short-chain fatty acids that nourish its lining. Good sources of dietary fiber include whole fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds – make sure that you consume 25-38 grams daily to maximize these benefits!
