Our bodies need nutrients that are derived from the type of food we eat. Broadly speaking, there are five nutrients derived from food. These nutrients are carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oils, minerals and vitamins.
Carbohydrates are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are oxidized to produce energy in the body. This energy is available for our life activities. Carbohydrates are also important in the formation of milk in lactating mothers. They are also components of important organs in the body such as the brain and cartilage. A greater proportion of what we eat consists of carbohydrates. It can be obtained from products made from yams, cassava, Irish potatoes, and sweet potatoes. Products obtained from cereals such as rice, corn, wheat, etc. are also included.
Proteins are essential to replace worn-out cells and make new ones. Pregnant mothers need an adequate amount of protein for the healthy development of the fetus. They are essential for the secretion of hormones and enzymes. Proteins are obtained from eggs, milk, meat, fish, peanuts, beans, peas, and soybeans.
Fats and oils are necessary for energy production. They give shine to the body and are solvents for vitamins A, D, E and K. Fats and oils are obtained from animal fats, palm oil, peanut oil and cottonseed oil. Vitamins help the body fight disease. Vitamins are important for the proper functioning of the body’s organs. They are obtained from fruits and vegetables.
Minerals give strength to the skeleton of the body. Some mineral elements help maintain the acid-base balance of body fluids. Iron is a component of hemoglobin. The minerals are obtained from bones, fish, common salt, etc.
When these nutrients are obtained in adequate amounts, the body functions very well and diseases are kept away.