Introduction
Nutrition is the process of providing or obtaining the food and nutrients that are needed for health and growth of the body. Nutrition is all about eating healthy, balanced diets.
It involves the ingestion, absorption, transport, and utilization of essential nutrients by the body’s cells. Nutrition is a critical component of human health. Good nutrition is linked to better brain health in children and improved mental performance. Nutritionists employ facts and ideologies from biology, chemistry and genetics to comprehend how nutrient intake affects human health.
According to UNICEF, at least 1 in 3 children under age of 5 years old suffers from malnutrition- undernutrition or overweight.
Children that are undernourished show signs such as stunted growth or muscle wasting. In overweight or obese children, there is a pre-disposition to certain diseases. Psycho-socially, they suffer from behavioural and emotional problems such as depression and stigma.
Nutrient groups
There are more than 40 different kinds of nutrients in food and they can generally be classified into the following 7 major groups:
1. Carbohydrates.
2. Proteins.
3. Fats.
The first 3 are the most common.
4.Vitamins.
5.Minerals.
6.Dietary fibre.
7.Water
Sources
- Cereals for carbohydrates
- Eggs, fish, red meat for proteins
- Cheese, butter, cream, coconut and palm oil for Fats and oils
Importance of Good Nutrition
- Nutrients provide nourishment. Body cells are supplied with essential materials for growth.
- Maintains general good health
- Ensures proper growth and development, especially ininfants, children and adolescents
- Boosts the immune system and improves ability to resist illnesses and infections
- Gives us energy for daily activities and improved mental performance
- Lowers the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes
- Eating good, healthy food enables us to keep fit by avoiding obesity thus maintaining normal healthy Body Mass Index(BMI) ranges.
Features of Good Nutrition
- Balanced diet with a variety of nutrient-dense foods. For example eggs, milk
- Adequate intake of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats)
- Sufficient intake of micronutrients (vitamins, minerals)
- Appropriate caloric intake to maintain a healthy body weight
- Hydration with plenty of water consumption to improve kidney function
- Moderation in consumption of added sugars, sodium,processed carbs and unhealthy fats
Conclusion
- Proper nutrition is a function performed by provision of a balanced diet
- Good nutrition is necessary for overall health, growth, and disease prevention.
- Visiting a nutritionist on a regular basis can help in maintaining better general health.
- Poor nutrient intake can lead to nutritional deficiencies ie Iron deficiency anaemia.