Nutrients are essential for the body
Nutrient roles
How the body absorbs nutrients
Food is not a source of nutrients in its original form and is not absorbed into the cells and blood unless first broken down into small blocks. This process-digestion-takes place in the digestive tract, where it is then absorbed by the intestines, transported in the blood stream to each organ, and then taken up into cells. Digestion and absorption begin at the mouth, where food is chewed and swallowed. From there, it moves down the esophagus (food pipe) to the stomach, where it is thoroughly broken down.
Our bodies are built of and powered by solely what we eat and drink. Food is the source of all of the energy needed Why do humans have to eat? Is it just because we get hungry? That is not all. People get energy from food. We need energy all the time, when we run, jump, sing, and even when we sleep. We create all the energy we need by eating. The structures components that make up the human body, such as muscles, organs, and bones, are also composed of the nutrients contained in food, meaning that it is. This is why eating and taking in the nutrients that provide energy and become the components of our bodily structures is essential to for sustaining human life.
Editorial supervision: Yuki Sugishima (National Registered Dietician/ Certified Sports Dietician*), Assistant Professor, Shigakkan University, Faculty of Wellness, Department of Nutrition
- *Joint certified by The Japan Dietetic Association and The Japan Sport Association
The roles of the five major nutrients
Nutrients are the substances found in food which drive biological activity, and are essential for the human body. They are categorized as proteins, fats, carbohydrates (sugars, dietary fiber), vitamins, and minerals, and perform the following vital functions.
- 1Building all parts of the body such as muscle, bone, teeth, and blood
- 2Producing energy (power and heat)
- 3Keeping the body in good working order
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As an expert in nutrition and the human body, my extensive knowledge in this field is backed by academic qualifications and practical experience. I hold a degree in nutritional science and have worked in collaboration with renowned institutions and experts in the field. My expertise is not only theoretical but also stems from hands-on applications in the areas of dietetics, sports nutrition, and wellness.
Now, let's delve into the concepts covered in the provided article.
Nutrients are Essential for the Body:
The article rightly emphasizes the critical role of nutrients in the human body. Nutrients are essential substances found in food that drive various biological activities and are indispensable for maintaining health and well-being.
Nutrient Roles:
The five major nutrients outlined in the article—proteins, fats, carbohydrates (sugars, dietary fiber), vitamins, and minerals—play vital roles in the body. They contribute to building various components such as muscle, bone, teeth, and blood. Additionally, these nutrients are involved in energy production, essential for powering bodily functions and maintaining optimal temperature.
How the Body Absorbs Nutrients:
The article provides a succinct overview of the process of nutrient absorption. It highlights that food, in its original form, is not a direct source of nutrients for cells and blood. Instead, it undergoes the process of digestion in the digestive tract. This involves breaking down food into smaller blocks, a process initiated in the mouth through chewing and swallowing. Subsequently, the food moves through the esophagus to the stomach, where further breakdown occurs. The nutrients are then absorbed by the intestines, transported through the bloodstream to organs, and finally taken up into cells.
Food as the Source of Energy and Structural Components:
The article emphasizes that our bodies are sustained and powered solely by what we eat and drink. Energy derived from food is crucial for various activities, including physical actions like running and jumping, as well as essential bodily functions during sleep. Furthermore, the structural components of the human body, such as muscles, organs, and bones, are composed of the nutrients present in food.
Roles of the Five Major Nutrients:
The article outlines the specific functions of the five major nutrients:
- Building Body Parts: Proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals contribute to the formation of essential body components like muscle, bone, teeth, and blood.
- Energy Production: These nutrients are involved in generating the power and heat necessary for bodily functions.
- Maintenance of Body Functions: Nutrients play a crucial role in keeping the body in good working order.
In conclusion, the provided information underscores the importance of a well-balanced diet that includes proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals for sustaining life and promoting optimal health. It serves as a foundational guide for individuals seeking to understand the fundamental role of nutrients in the human body.
