Page 9 - Food And Human

Form One

Chapter Introduction to food

One and nutrition

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Introduction

Food and nutrition are essential components of human life and overall well-
being. Understanding the principles of food and nutrition is vital for making
informed choices about the foods we eat and their impact on our bodies. In this
chapter, you will learn about the concept of food and nutrition, the importance
of food, and the relationship between Food and Human Nutrition with other
subjects. The competencies developed will enable you to develop lifetime
healthy eating behaviour and avoid nutrition-related health disorders.

Think

Contribution of Food and Nutrition in our life

Concept of food and nutrition
Food is anything edible that can be solid, semi-solid or liquid which when eaten,
digested and assimilated in the body provides essential substances called nutrients.
Nutrients keep the person alive, provide energy, enable growth, repair worn-out
tissues and protect the body from diseases. Food is obtained from plants and animal
sources. It can be consumed in a raw state or in a processed form.

Nutrition is the process of taking in food and converting it into energy and other
vital nutrients required for life. It is concerned with how the body uses nutrients
to nourish itself and perform different functions. It is the study of all processes of
growth, maintenance and repair of worn-out tissues in the body to remain healthy.

Importance of food

Understanding the functions of food is important in making informed dietary choices
that support optimal health and well-being throughout life time. The following are
the importance of food:

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Food and Human Nutrition

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