Modern Concept of Utilization of Nutritients

Submitted to: Ms. Anamika Nag (Department of Nutrition)

Submitted by: Divya Dwivedi Roll no. N-0831 (M.Sc. Nutrition, 2ndyear)

Introduction
Nutrients are substances derived from food during the process of digestion. Our diet should provide adequate amount of all nutrients to maintain good health and physical efficiency. Daily food intake should be such that of the total consumption, about 15 to 20% is protein, 40 to 50% is complex Carbohydrates and 20 to 30% is fat.

Three main groups of nutrients contained in food which needed by the body are..

Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Fat

Carbohydrates.
Carbohydrates are organic compounds which may be simple and complex. It includes sugars and starches. Glucose is required by red blood cells and is the main source of energy for the brain. It is also essential for the oxidation of fat and for the synthesis of certain non-essential amino acids. The percentage of calories derived from carbohydrates should be at least 40% in well balanced diets. But this consumption differs country wise depending on the difference in diets. While in developing nations it is as high as 60-70%, it is 40-50% in Europe and 30-40% in USA.

Proteins..
Proteins are the structural components of the body forming the basis of cells, tissues and organs. Proteins are digested by break down into smaller units called amino acids. Of the 20 basic amino acids 12 can be manufactured by the body and the rest, called the 'essential amino acids' must be obtained from food.

Fats

Fats are a group of organic compounds that occur naturally in plant and animal cells in the form of lipids, consisting of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms. They are an important energy store, having twice the calorific value than carbohydrates. They are broken down into its constituents parts by enzymes called lipases. Fats contain Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) which are essential for maintaining tissues in normal health.

Fiber..
Fiber is derived from plants and is found in fruit, green leafy and root vegetables, whole meal flour and bread, bran rich food, brown rice, cereals including oats, beans and pulses. Fiber plays a vital role in the digestive process by softening the bile wastes and speeding up the process of elimination of undigested food thus helping to prevent constipation. The presence of fiber regulates the absorption of fats and glucose into the bloodstream.

Vitamins.

Vitamins are a group of organic substances that are required in minute quantities in the diet in order to maintain good health. A lack of a particular vitamin results in a deficiency disease. There are six vitamin groups such as Vitamin A, B, C, D, E, K and P. Vitamins and minerals dont directly provide energy but they contribute to nutrition by allowing chemical reactions to occur normally through out the body these reactions known as metabolism. Vitamins are classified as Fat soluble vitamins and Water soluble vitamins.

Mineral.
Calcium Iron Iodine Sodium Chloride (Nacl) Potassium

Balanced Diet
The human body requires food to provide energy for all life process and for growth, repair and maintenance of cells and tissues. The dietetic needs vary according to age, sex and occupation. A balanced diet contains different types of foods in such quantities and proportions that the need for calories, minerals, vitamins and other nutrients is adequately met and small provision is made for extra nutrients to with stand short duration of leanness. Eating a well balanced diet on a regular basis and staying at your ideal weight are critical factors in maintaining your emotional and physical well-being. Being over weight/under weight can lead to certain chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Fluid intake in the form of water based drinks is also essential for good health. Water is essential for the correct functioning of the kidneys and bowels. At least 6-8 glasses of plain water should be drunk each day, more in hot weather.

Thank You