Quick Guide to Nutrition

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Quick Guide to Nutrition

The origin of the word 'nutrition' is linked to the Latin words 'Nutritionem and Nutrire' meaning "a nourishing" or "to nourish, suckle."

Nutrition is primarily defined as the process by which living organisms obtain food and use it for growth, metabolism, and repair. The American Heritage Science Dictionary defines nutrition as the scientific study of food and nourishment that includes food composition, dietary guidelines and the roles that various nutrients have in maintaining health. The stages of nutrition include ingestion, digestion, absorption, transportation, assimilation and excretion.

Good nutrition plays a vital role in our wellbeing. It helps to keep the mind and the body healthy. Here are some simple guidelines that an individual should follow for healthy living. However, it is suggested that you should get a personalized nutrition consultation, if you suffer from or have any medical conditions.

• A healthy and nutritionally adequate diet provides sustained energy for an active lifestyle.
• Diet should be chosen wisely from a wide variety of foods available.
• Extra care and professional help is required during lactation and pregnancy.
• Children and adolescents should consume a nutritionally balanced diet in health and illness, as their growing bodies would need extra nourishment.
• Green leafy vegetables and colorful fruits should be eaten in plenty as they are rich sources of vitamins and minerals that boost immunity.
• Cooking oils and other fats should be used in moderation.
• Overeating should be avoided as it leads to obesity and other health problems.
• Skipping meals should be avoided as it can alter the body's metabolism.
• Proper physical activities and exercises are required to maintain good health.
• Salt should be used in moderation.
• Processed and ready-to-eat foods should be consumed sparingly.
• Food should be cooked and prepared in hygienic conditions.
• Water should be taken in adequate quantity.
• Elderly people should eat nutrient-rich diet to enjoy an active and healthy life.