Definition and Types of Nutrition You Need to Know

General Understanding of Nutrition

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the definition of nutrition is the content of nutrients that a person obtains from food and drink sources that are useful for health and the development of body cells. Good nutrition means that the body gets the right intake of healthy foods in the right combination. Getting good nutrition can improve the health of babies, children and mothers, a stronger immune system, safer pregnancy and childbirth, a lower risk of non-communicable diseases (such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease), and longevity.

Difference Between Nutrition and Nutrients

Referring to the Indonesian Nutrition Scholars Association, the word nutrition comes from Arabic, namely ghizi or ghidza which means food. Meanwhile, nutrition is a word from the Latin word nutritionem which also means food. If you look at the explanation, there is no difference in terms of the meaning of nutrition and nutrition. However, the use of these two words has different targets. This is because the term nutrition refers more to the process of food that the body digests. Conversely, the term nutrition refers to active compounds that the body uses to function normally.

Types of Nutrition You Need to Know

Nutrients are divided into several types with different functions for the body. Broadly speaking, the types of nutrients are divided into two categories, namely macronutrients and micronutrients as well as several subcategories of both.

• Macronutrients
  Macronutrients are nutrients that the body needs in larger amounts to provide energy. Here are some macronutrients:

• • • Carbohydrates.
      Sugar, starch, and fiber are types of carbohydrates. The body quickly breaks down and absorbs refined sugars and starches. However, fiber and starch that the body has not processed are complex carbohydrates. The body will need time to break down and absorb complex carbohydrates. After consuming fiber, a person will feel full longer.

• • • Protein.
      Proteins are made up of amino acids, which are naturally occurring organic compounds. There are 20 amino acids. Some of them are essential, meaning people need to get them from their diet.

• • • Fat.
      Fat is essential for joint lubrication, helping organs produce hormones, helping the body absorb vitamins and maintaining brain health. However, too much fat can lead to obesity, high cholesterol and heart disease.
• Micronutrients
  Micronutrients have a number of important benefits for the body. Including allowing the body to produce enzymes, hormones, and other substances to support normal growth and development. Although the body requires intake in small amounts, its impact on body health is very important. This is because a lack of intake of one of the micronutrients can cause health problems.
  Here are some micronutrients that everyone needs to get enough of:

• • • Minerals.
      The body needs dietary minerals, such as iron, calcium, potassium, to maintain the balance of organ function. For example, too little potassium can lead to high blood pressure, stroke, and kidney stones. Conversely, too much may be harmful to people with kidney disease.

• • • Vitamins.
      Everyone needs various vitamins in small amounts to maintain the immune system and optimize organ function. Some vitamins, such as vitamin C, act as antioxidants. This means that these vitamins can help protect body cells from damage by removing toxic molecules, or free radicals, from the body.

That is the definition of nutrition as well as the types of nutrition that you need to know. Make sure you and your family always meet the intake of important nutrients every day. If you still have questions about this, immediately contact a doctor to get the best medical advice.