Rawhiya

Human Nutrition

Definition

Human nutrition is the process by which our body gets the food, energy, and nutrients it needs to grow, stay healthy, and work properly.

Main Things in Human Nutrition

1. Nutrients

These are the important substances in food that our body needs.

Main nutrients:

Carbohydrates – give energy

Proteins – help in growth and repair of body parts

Fats – give energy and protect organs

Vitamins – keep the body healthy and help in many functions

Minerals – help bones, blood, nerves, and muscles

Water – needed for digestion, transport, and temperature control

2. Balanced Diet

A balanced diet means eating all types of nutrients in the right amounts. It includes:

Rice/wheat

Vegetables

Fruits

Milk/curd

Meat/egg/dal

Nuts

Plenty of water

3. Why Human Nutrition Is Important

Helps body grow

Gives energy

Stops diseases

Keeps brain active

Makes bones and muscles strong

Types of Nutrition

1. Autotrophic Nutrition

Organisms make their own food.

(Humans do not have this type.)

2. Heterotrophic Nutrition

Organisms depend on others for food.

Humans have heterotrophic nutrition.

Types:

Herbivores – eat plants

Carnivores – eat animals

Omnivores – eat both (Humans are omnivores)

Examples of Nutrients in Foods

Carbohydrates – rice, chapati, bread

Proteins – egg, dal, chicken

Fats – ghee, nuts, oil

Vitamins – fruits, vegetables

Minerals – milk (calcium), banana (potassium)