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Food - The nutritional support
Food is a tool for good health, and it is a basic necessity of every organism and life.
Food is any substance of plant or animal origin consumed to provide nutritional support for an organism.
Food nourishes the body that aids in growth and maintenance and contains nutrients that provide energy. The energy helps in growth and development, repairing worn-out tissues, and protecting the body from disease.
Functions of food
Food, when contaminated with microorganisms, causes illness. Illness can be either infection or poisoning. Food safety is a major concern and is of prime focus nowadays. Adulteration in food is commonly practised in India by traders.
Food adulteration starts from production to consumption for financial gain. Normal physiological functions are affected due to the addition of the deleterious substance or removal of a vital component. Food safety laws have come to play to maintain the quality of the food produced in our country.
Classification of Nutrients
All foods have ingredients that make us healthy and energetic to do work.
The chemical constituents present in food provides energy, build the body, and protect from diseases are called nutrients.
Nutrients provide energy for growth and repair, activity, and bodily functions like breathing, digestion, and keeping us warm. The different nutrients in food include:
- Carbohydrates
- Proteins
- Fats or lipids
- Minerals
- Vitamins
Nutrients in food
- Macronutrient
- Micronutrient
Macronutrient:
Macro means big, and macronutrients are thus nutrients that we require in larger amounts or quantities. Macronutrients include:
1. Carbohydrates
2. Fats
3. Proteins
Macronutrients
Micronutrients:
Micro means small, and micronutrients are thus the nutrients required in small amounts.
1. Minerals and
2. Vitamins
Micronutrients