Nutrition

This lesson covers: 

  1. The five main nutrients needed in a balanced diet
  2. The sources and functions of the five nutrients
  3. The additional roles of water and fibre

The five key nutrients

A balanced diet is essential for maintaining health and should include the correct amounts of five key nutrients, along with fibre and water.


The five key nutrients are:

  1. Carbohydrates
  2. Proteins
  3. Lipids (fats and oils)
  4. Vitamins
  5. Minerals

The sources and functions of the five nutrients

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are the primary energy source for the body.

Image showing sources of carbohydrates including pasta, bread, and potatoes.
  • Sources - Starches, pasta, bread, potatoes, and cereals.
  • Function - Primary energy source for daily activities and metabolic processes.

Proteins

Proteins are the building blocks of the body, essential for the growth and repair of tissues.

Image showing sources of proteins including beans, meat, and eggs.
  • Sources - Meat, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and seeds.
  • Function - Support growth and repair damaged tissues.

Lipids

Lipids, including fats and oils, act as an energy reserve and play a role in cell structure.

Image showing sources of lipids including butter, oil, and nuts.
  • Sources - Fats, butter, oils, nuts and cream.
  • Function - Are crucial for long-term energy storage, especially when carbohydrate resources are depleted. They are also important for insulating the body and protecting vital organs.

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamins and minerals are required in small amounts but are vital for health, supporting processes like bone formation, vision, and immune function.

Image showing sources of minerals including spinach, milk, and salmon.

Vitamins:

  • Examples - Vitamins A, B, C, D, E.
  • Sources - Fruits and vegetables.
  • Functions - Essential for maintaining health and supporting vital processes.


Minerals:

  • Examples - Iron, calcium, sodium.
  • Functions - Iron - Necessary for healthy blood and is found in meat.
  • Functions - Calcium - Crucial for bones and teeth and is found in dairy.
  • Functions - Sodium - Important for nerve function and is found in salt.

Additional necessary components: water and fibre

Image showing a glass of water being filled and various fibre-rich foods including cauliflower, bread, and bananas.

Water:

  • Water is involved in nearly every bodily function, from digestion to temperature regulation.
  • It is vital for hydration, metabolic processes, and temperature control.
  • It is found in drinks and water-rich foods.


Fibre:

  • Fibre is essential for digestive health, aiding in the prevention of constipation and promoting gut health.
  • It helps to maintain digestive health and prevent constipation.
  • It is found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.