Nutrients are available from:

• foodstuff

where the majority of nutrients are naturally present

• additive in foodstuff and beverages

e.g. carotenes, antioxidants

• other sources

e.g. vitamin D manufactured from exposure to sunlight

e.g. supplements

Nutrients are required in the body mainly for:

• Growth
  e.g. of bones, lean tissue
• Energy
  e.g. for activity
  e.g. energy can be stored in the body, such as body fat
• Maintaining health
  e.g. of blood, bones, metabolism
  
  
  
  

Macronutrients & Micronutrients

Nutrients are divided into two groups according to the amount we need to consume:

• macronutrients: nutrients needed in lager amount: carbohydrates, proteins and fats
• micronutrients: nutrients needed in smaller amounts: vitamins and minerals

Note:

Nutrients are that are not used immediately are stored in the body for later use: