Taking a balanced diet such as fruits, vegetables, protein and other classes of foods help ensure that the body is fit and has plenty of nutrients.
Food is substance that we feed on to obtain nutrients.
Nutrition is the science that interprets the nutrients and other substances in food. Nutrition illustrates how food affects the health of the body. Food is essential; it provides vital nutrients for energy, growth and helps the body function well.
A healthy diet includes natural foods. A sizeable portion of a healthy food should consist of fruits and vegetables. The effective management of food consumption and nutrition are essential for good health. It is important to know that understanding good nutrition and paying attention to what you eat can help maintain and improve your health.
Carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oil, and water are known as Primary Food Substances because they are necessary for the maintenance of the body.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. They are the main source of energy in the body e.g. Cereals, Yams, Potatoes etc.
Protein
Protein contains nitrogen in addition to carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. They are the main body building substances necessary for building new cells e.g. Meat, Milk, Eggs etc.
Fats and Oils
Fats and Oils are known as lipids. They contain high proportion of carbon and hydrogen but very little oxygen. Fats are solid while oils are liquid at room temperature. They provide the body with energy e.g. Fats are found in Butter, Margarine, Fatty meat, Cheese etc.
Water
About 70% of the body mass of a human being is due to water. Water makes up a large part in the human body. It is the medium in which chemical reactions take place in the body i.e. substances must be in a dissolved form before they can react. Water is also important in the transportation of substances such as digested food substances etc.
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Blessing Agunloye is a student studying Chemistry Education. I have a strong passion for Media and Communications. I’m passionate about being a change maker in my society and helping youths and teenagers discover their purpose. I love creativity and innovation.