Nutrients are the chemical
substances that nourish the body. They provide the body with energy and essential materials. Our
body gets nutrients from food, in the shape of carbohydrates, fats, proteins,
vitamins, dietary fibres, and mineral salts. Let's take a look at the importance of these essential nutrients.Carbohydrates are needed as a source of energy in the human body. Sometimes they are used up by the body to be converted into other organic compounds such as amino acids, fatty acids, and glycerol. They are also needed for the formation of nucleic acids (e.g. DNA). They synthesize lubricants, e.g. mucus which consists of a carbohydrate and a protein. This mucus lines the respiratory system that traps dust and bacterial particles.Fats also serve as an efficient source and storage of energy. They also serve as an insulating material, especially beneath the skin, to prevent excessive heat loss. They act as a solvent for fat-soluble vitamins and other
substances. They also build up the cell's protoplasm.Proteins are very complex organic substances that are always present in the cells. Thus, they are essential for the synthesis of protoplasm, for growth and repair of worn-out body cells. They are used to make enzymes and hormones. Their most important function is to synthesize various antibodies. They also serve as a source of energy.Vitamins are organic compounds that are required in very small quantities by the body. There are many types of vitamins. These include Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, etc.Vitamin A is needed for the formation of a light-sensitive pigment in the eye and for maintaining healthy epithelial tissues. Vitamin B also plays an important function in the normal functioning of the body. Vitamin C is needed for the formation of intercellular substances and maintaining healthy epithelial tissues. Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus compounds from the intestines.Dietary fibres are important because they provide bulk to the intestinal contents. They also help in peristalsis, the muscular movement of the alimentary canal. Dietary fibres prevent constipation and cancer of the intestine. They allow the food to easily move along the alimentary (food) canal. Dietary fibres also prevent heart disease and diabetes.Minerals are inorganic salts that do not provide energy to the body but are indispensable to the bodily functions. The two most important minerals are iron and calcium. Iron is needed for the manufacture of haemoglobin, a red pigment found in red blood cells. This red pigment enables the red blood cells to transport oxygen from one part of the body to another. Calcium is required for the building of bones and teeth. It is needed for the clotting of blood and for the normal functioning of the muscles.