Summary
A balanced diet supplies carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, fibre and water.
In depth
Macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, fats; micronutrients: vitamins and minerals; fibre and water. Energy needs depend on age, size and activity. Malnutrition includes undernutrition and obesity.
Energy needs come from macronutrients; essential amino acids and fatty acids must be eaten. Food labels give nutrient content. Overnutrition raises disease risk.
Remember: fibre aids digestion though not digested.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nutrition and Diet?
A balanced diet supplies carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, fibre and water.
Which area of biology covers Nutrition and Diet, and how advanced is it?
Nutrition and Diet is one of the 51 topics in Human Physiology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Small Intestine Absorption, Digestive Enzymes, Nephron Function.
Can you give an example of Nutrition and Diet?
Kwashiorkor is severe protein deficiency.
What should I learn before Nutrition and Diet?
Nutrition and Diet is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Human Physiology that pair well with it include Homeostasis, Tissues and Organs, Skeletal System.
What topics are related to Nutrition and Diet?
The closest topics to Nutrition and Diet are Small Intestine Absorption, Digestive Enzymes, Nephron Function, Energy Balance and Metabolism. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Nutrition and Diet?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Nutrition and Diet. To practise the whole of Human Physiology, use the Human Physiology quiz.
How is Nutrition and Diet different from Small Intestine Absorption?
Nutrition and Diet: A balanced diet supplies carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, fibre and water. Small Intestine Absorption: Villi and microvilli provide a huge surface area for nutrient absorption into blood and lymph. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Nutrition and Diet step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Small Intestine Absorption and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Human Physiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.