Nutrition: An Overview

Nutrition involves consuming a balanced diet to furnish the body with the essential nutrients needed for energy, growth, and repair. Understanding macronutrients and micronutrients is key to mastering the basics of nutrition.

Macronutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are required in large amounts and provide energy. Carbohydrates are the body's main fuel source, while proteins and fats support tissue repair and storage of energy respectively.

Unlike macronutrients, micronutrients are needed in smaller quantities. Vitamins and minerals fall into this category, playing crucial roles in bone health, immune function, and blood clotting. Surprisingly, even slight deficiencies can impact overall health.

Often overlooked, water is a critical nutrient, essential for life. It aids digestion, absorption, circulation, and excretion. Intriguingly, water facilitates cellular homeostasis and temperature regulation, and comprises about 60% of the human body.

Fiber, found in plant foods, maintains digestive health and prevents constipation. It also helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Interestingly, fiber's role in gut health extends to influencing mood and immune function due to gut-brain connections.

Phytonutrients are compounds in plants that have protective properties, like anti-inflammation and antioxidant actions. They're not essential for life, but they can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and offer surprising benefits like enhanced brain function.

A balanced diet includes a variety of foods to obtain all nutrients. Surprisingly, the way you prepare food can affect its nutrient content. For example, steaming vegetables preserves more vitamins than boiling. Planning meals can help maintain nutritional balance.