1. Carbohydrates: Provide the body with energy.
2. Fats (Lipids): Provide energy, insulate organs, and help the body absorb vitamins.
3. Proteins: Build and repair tissues, produce enzymes and hormones, and transport oxygen.
4. Vitamins: Support various bodily functions, including immunity, vision, and blood clotting.
5. Minerals: Essential for bone health, nerve function, muscle contraction, and many other processes.
6. Water: Crucial for hydration, temperature regulation, and nutrient transport.
Nutrients are obtained through the food we eat and are absorbed into the bloodstream. They are then delivered to the cells throughout the body, where they are used to perform their specific roles.
Key points to remember:
* Essential nutrients: The body cannot produce these on its own and must be obtained from food.
* Non-essential nutrients: The body can synthesize these from other nutrients or processes.
* Nutrient deficiency: Lack of essential nutrients can lead to health problems.
* Nutrient excess: Consuming too much of certain nutrients can also be harmful.
By consuming a balanced diet that includes all essential nutrients, we can ensure our bodies have the resources they need to function optimally.