Nutrition refers to the study of nutrition, the use of nutrients by the body, and the relationship between diet and health.
Plants uptake essential elements from the soil through their roots and from the air (mainly nitrogen and oxygen) through their leaves. Green plants obtain their carbohydrate supply from the carbon dioxide in the air by photosynthesis. Carbon and oxygen are absorbed from the air, while other nutrients are absorbed from the soil. Nutrient uptake in the soil is achieved by cation exchange, wherein root hairs pump hydrogen ions (H+) into the soil through proton pumps. These hydrogen ions displace cations attached to negatively charged soil particles so that the cations are available for uptake by the root. In the leaves, stomata open to take in carbon dioxide and expel oxygen. The carbon dioxide molecules are used as the carbon source in photosynthesis.
Animal nutrition focuses on the dietary nutrient needs of animals, often in comparison (or contrast) to other organisms like plants. Carnivore and herbivore diets contrast, with basic nitrogen and carbon proportions varying for their particular foods. Many herbivores rely on bacterial fermentation to create digestible nutrients from indigestible plant cellulose. At the same time, obligate carnivores must eat animal meats to obtain certain vitamins or nutrients their bodies cannot otherwise synthesize. Animals generally have a higher requirement of energy in comparison to plants.
To understand the effects of nutrients on the body, nutritionists draw upon ideas from biochemistry and molecular biology.
Nutrition is also about making dietary choices that reduce the disease’s risk. It also discusses what happens when a person consumes too many or too few nutrients and how allergies work.
Nutrients provide nourishment. Proteins, carbohydrates, fat, all types of carbohydrates.
Sugars
The body quickly absorbs sugars and processed starch. These can give you energy quickly, but they don’t leave you feeling full. They can also spike blood sugar levels. Frequent sugar spikes increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Complex carbs are healthier than refined sugars.
Fats
For:
- lubricating joints
- helping organs produce hormones
- Allowing the body to absorb certain vitamins
- Inflammation Reduction
- preserving brain health
Too much fat can lead to obesity, high cholesterol and liver disease, and other health issues.
Water
The adult human body requires up to 60% water. Many processes require water. Water contains no potassium.
A varied and balanced diet is the best way to get the minerals that a person requires in most cases. Supplements may be recommended by a doctor if there is a deficiency.
Summary
Nutrition is the study and analysis of food and its effects on the body. To get various nutrients, people need to eat a varied diet.
Some people prefer to stick to a certain diet. This type of person may need to plan well to ensure that they get all the necessary vitamins to stay healthy.
People are most likely to be healthier if they eat a diet rich in plant-based food and limit their intake of animal fats and processed foods.
