Jessica Wanjiku Licensed Nutritionist

An Overview of Nutrition and Nourishment

The definition of nutrition describes the process of providing or obtaining the food necessary for the health and growth of an individual. Nutrition relates to the understanding of the interaction between food and well-being. Food gives us nutrients which when utilized in the body perform various functions such as providing energy and protecting us from diseases. The term nourishment is used interchangeably with nutrition although it has a slightly different meaning, which is the intense process of digesting food in the intestines to release nutrients into the body. There are no generalizations when it comes to nutrition since each individual has unique bodily needs. To get the best nutrition, each individual has to apply the practices that are best suited for their health needs and require scientific evidence to back it up.

What are Nutrients

Nutrition involves nutrients, and how they are taken into the body, absorbed, assimilated, synthesized and excreted. Now let us explore what nutrients are. Nutrients are substances that provide nourishment that is essential for the maintenance of life and growth. There are about 45 nutrients that have been identified through scientific research that are important in our bodies.

Types of Nutrients

Nutrients are required in the body in various amounts: Macro-nutrients and Micro-nutrients.

1. Macro-nutrients. They are required in the body in large amounts. They include carbohydrates, fiber, fats, proteins and water. Macro-nutrients are essential in the body and are associated with energy production.

Did you know that water is a nutrient by its self? Water constitutes 60% of your body and its necessary to replenish this amount daily.

2. Micro-nutrients. These are required in the body in small amounts. They include vitamins and minerals. Micro-nutrients help to regulate the production of energy from the macro-nutrients. Micro-nutrients are often added to food during food processing. For example, iodine is added to common salt to make iodized salt and vitamins are added to maize meal to make fortified maize meal.

Conclusion

Nutrition and nourishment from food are necessary to our bodies - the cell and organelles - to keep us alive. We need to identify which nutrients we need, add some like vitamins and minerals from fruits, and reduce some like carbohydrates from gluten sources. Know your body's requirements and strive to nourish your body adequately each day.

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