2. Nutrients
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:
Macronutrients |
Carbohydrates are stored in the liver or muscle Proteins are essentially stored in muscle Fats are stored in fat cells or in muscle |
Micronutrients |
Stored mainly in fat cells and the liver, although water soluble vitamins are not stored. |