Classification Of Nutrients In Food

The Nutrients in Food can be classified into more than 40 types which again can be classified into 7 major groups. These 7 major grouped of Nutrients perform unique and different functions in our body. They are all essential for good health as they work together and contribute.

Nutrient Classification

1. Carbohydrates – Major source of energy for our body obtained from Grains such as Rice and Noodles, Fruits, Root Vegetables, Dry Beans and Dairy Products
2. Proteins – Building, repairing and maintaining healthy body tissues. Sources of Protein are Meat, Fish, Seafood, Eggs, Dairy Products, Dry Beans etc.
3. Fats – Fats are energy sources. They prevent heat loss in extreme cold weather and protects organs against shock. They are also responsible for making up part of our body cells and transporting fat-soluble Vitamins like Vitamin A, D, E and K. Meat, Fish, Seafood, Dairy Products, Nuts, Seeds and Oils are sources of Fats
4. Vitamins – Vitamins participate in different body metabolism like maintaining healthy skin and hair, building bones and releasing and utilizing energy from food. Vitamins are classified into water-soluble and fat-soluble. There are many kinds of Vitamins
5. Minerals – They regulate many body functions such as Fluid Balance, Muscle Contraction and Transmission of Nerve Impulses. Minerals are a group of essential Nutrients. Some Minerals also contribute in body structure and building strong and healthy bones, like Calcium
6. Dietary Fiber – The indigestible part found in plants, which helps stabilize Blood Sugar, promote Gastrointestinal health and prevent Constipation. There are Soluble and Insoluble Fiber
7. Water – The abundant substance in the Human Body, which is an essential Nutrient to maintain our health. Water regulates body temperature, produce body fluids, transportation of Nutrients and removal of Waste Products

Each of the Nutrients perform different functions in our body but they all work together and contribute to good health.

Disclaimer: Source of information – Centre for Health Protection (CHP). Information published here is only for public awareness