What is the Composition of Food?

Key Notes :

1. Food Composition

  • Food is made up of various components that provide energy, growth, and maintenance for the body. These components are known as nutrients.

2. Main Nutrients in Food

The major nutrients in food are:

  • Carbohydrates
  • Proteins
  • Fats
  • Vitamins
  • Minerals
  • Water

3. Carbohydrates

  • Function: Provide energy for daily activities.
  • Sources: Rice, wheat, bread, sugar, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Types: Simple carbohydrates (sugars) and complex carbohydrates (starches and fibers).

4. Proteins

  • Function: Help in growth, repair of tissues, and maintenance of the body.
  • Sources: Meat, fish, eggs, beans, lentils, and nuts.
  • Amino Acids: Proteins are made up of smaller units called amino acids, which are essential for the body’s functions.

5. Fats

  • Function: Provide energy, store energy, and help in the absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K.
  • Sources: Butter, oils, cheese, meat, nuts, and seeds.
  • Types: Saturated fats (found in animal products) and unsaturated fats (found in plant-based oils).

6. Vitamins

  • Function: Regulate body processes, maintain health, and protect against diseases.
  • Types:
    • Vitamin A: Vision and immune function (carrots, spinach).
    • Vitamin C: Skin, gums, and immune function (citrus fruits, strawberries).
    • Vitamin D: Bone health (sunlight, dairy products).

7. Minerals

  • Function: Help in the formation of bones and teeth, nerve function, and overall body functions.
  • Types:
    • Calcium: For strong bones and teeth (milk, leafy greens).
    • Iron: For blood formation (red meat, spinach).
    • Sodium: For fluid balance (salt, processed foods).

8. Water

  • Function: Regulates body temperature, removes waste, and helps in digestion and nutrient transport.
  • Sources: Water, fruits, vegetables, and drinks.

9. Dietary Fiber

  • Function: Helps in digestion and prevents constipation.
  • Sources: Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

10. Balanced Diet

  • A balanced diet includes all the essential nutrients in the correct proportions to keep the body healthy.
  • Eating a variety of foods from different groups ensures that all nutrients are consumed.

11. Role of Food in the Body

  • Food provides the energy for daily activities.
  • It aids in growth and repair of tissues.
  • It helps in maintaining bodily functions (digestion, circulation, etc.).

12. Deficiency Diseases

  • A lack of certain nutrients can lead to deficiency diseases. For example:
    • Vitamin C deficiency: Scurvy
    • Vitamin A deficiency: Night blindness
    • Iron deficiency: Anemia

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