Food gives us energy to do everyday tasks like studying , playing and exercising. Nutrients make food healthy. The process of taking in and utilizing food for growth and development of our body is known as nutrition.
Nutrients that give us energy to do work are carbohydrates. They provide our body with instant energy and are also called energy – giving food. Food rich in carbohydrates are rice, wheat, fruit juices and potatoes.
Fats give our body more energy than carbohydrates. They also keep the body warm and provide taste to the food. Food that are a rich source of fats are also called energy – giving food.Oilseeds, nuts and butter are food rich in fats.
Proteins help us to grow. Food rich in proteins is known as body – building food. Pulses, fish, eggs, cheese and beans are rich in proteins. Growing children should include more protein – rich food in their diet.
Vitamin E boosts our body’s resistance against bacterial and viral infection.Some of the important vitamins required by our body are vitamins A, B – complex, C, D, E and K.
Minerals are required for the formation of healthy bones, blood and teeth.Minerals, such as calcium, are required for the formation of bones. Milk, curd and cheese are some foods rich in calcium.
We must eat a diet that contains all the nutrients in the right amount, along with roughage and water, for the proper functioning of our body. Such a diet is known as balanced diet.
Apart from nutrients, food items such as oats, barley, corn, cereals, fruits and green leafy vegetables also contain fibers that cannot be digested by our body. This is known as roughage. Water is essential for a good health.