We are what we eat F --An analysis of the importance of nutrients to human health

Essay by 6111oelCollege, UndergraduateF, April 2004

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We are what we eat F

--An analysis of the importance of nutrients to human health

"We are what we eat", as a famous quotation, may be even more accurate than originally thought. Human beings require food to grow, reproduce, and maintain good health. Without food, bodies could not stay warm, build and repair tissue, or maintain a heartbeat. Generally, food provides certain chemical substances needed in order for a person to maintain good health. These chemical substances are called nutrients. With the improvement of living conditions, people realize that setting up a nutrient diet becomes very important nowadays. In this case, the essay will analyze the importance of nutrients to human health in the following three aspects: the function of nutrients, the relationship between nutrients and health and the importance to form a nutrient diet.

It is essential to know the function of nutrients before analyzing their importance to human health.

In principle, nutrients can be classified into 6 groups. They are Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats, Mineral elements, Vitamins and Water. Each of them has a special function in the body, and all of them together are needed for overall health. Carbohydrates are a group of nutrients, which are the most available foods in the world. They are important in the diet as a source of energy. Research has proven that a daily diet high in carbohydrates is helpful. They constitute the base of a healthy eating plan. The second group of nutrients is proteins. Proteins are the main sources needed by the body to build strong muscles, repair tissues and maintain an effective immune state and hormonal system. Every cell in the body is partly made of proteins. Besides, scientists find that excess proteins in the diet can be used to store as fat. If carbohydrates, starches, or fats...