Question

What are the nutrients? Name the major nutrients.

Answer 1

Hint: Nutrients are substances every living organism requires to live a healthy life. They are molecules, both complex and simple ions, that are consumed through food and are utilized by our body to continue living.

Complete answer:
- Nutrients are compounds present in food that are necessary for a healthy life. They provide us with energy, substances to help in growth and repair, and building blocks for metabolic processes.
- The major nutrients are carbohydrates, proteins, fats (lipids), vitamins, and minerals.
- The nutrients are classified as macronutrients that include carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, and micronutrients, which include vitamins and minerals. This classification is based on the amount required by the body.
- Carbohydrates are the most essential nutrients for providing energy to the body. They are also the main energy source for the brain in the form of glucose. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy because they are easily converted to glucose, which is used for metabolic processes and are also stored in muscles and liver. They are classified as simple and complex carbohydrates. Examples of food containing a large number of carbohydrates are bread, cereals, potatoes, etc.
- Proteins are the major structural components of cells, help in tissue repair, and are the major component of hormones and enzymes. It is also necessary for building muscle. Sources of protein include eggs, milk, meats, pulses, nuts, etc.
- Fats, also known as lipids, are a very rich source of energy. They are necessary for increasing the solubility of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. They also provide insulation to the body and are shock absorbers. Healthy sources of fats include vegetable oils, milk and milk-based products, nuts, seeds, and avocado. Fats are classified into saturated and saturated fats, and our diet contains a mixture of these two.
- Vitamins are molecular complexes that are not an energy source but highly important for repair, metabolism, and the formation of enzymes and coenzymes. They are classified as water-soluble and fat-soluble. Sources of vitamins are from fruits and vegetables, and fortified cereals.
- Minerals are trace elements and ions required in low quantities by the body but are highly significant and their absence results in disorders. For example, iron is required for the functioning of hemoglobin and oxygen transport, calcium is required for bone and teeth formation.
- Another important substance which is not structurally a nutrient but is very important for survival is water.
- Water is a liquid that is required for practically all processes in the body and aids in optimum digestion, assimilation, excretion, and defecation. It is also a shock absorber and prevents dehydration.

Note:
- Storage forms of carbohydrates include glycogen and starch.
- Fats are not used as the primary source of energy in the body and are used when there is a deficit of carbohydrates.