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The Basics of Nutrition

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Running Head: GETTING TO THE BASICS Nutrition Health Nutrition is the study of the processes involved in the acquisition of substances, called nutrients, needed by a living organism to survive and grow (Healia, 2009). The body of the organism cannot produce these nutrients on its own and must thus be ingested from outside sources in sufficient amounts. Essential nutrients must be ingested on a daily basis from the diet so that the body can perform normal functions on a daily basis. They are called essential because the body's normal functions are dependent on them on a daily basis (Healia). 2. Nutrition furnishes the body with the nutrients it needs not only to go on living and to grow but also to maintain health (Healia, 2009). The nutrients must be ingested on a daily basis in their recommended amounts. These essential nutrients are vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats and carbohydrates. When there is a shortage, the body develops symptoms of deficiency. The lack of Vitamin D leads to the softening of bones. Muscle cramps can mean a deficiency in potassium. The lack of protein can lead to wasting of the muscles (Healia). 3. Nutrients make the body function normally and grow (CDC, 2011). Six of these are essential because the body cannot synthesize them. Proteins from foods replace broken down body proteins. Excellent sources are meats, poultry, dairy products, eggs, and fish. Carbohydrates produce glucose for energy. Good sources include cereals, dairy products

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