Home | health | 6 Essential Nutrients And Their Importance

6 essential nutrients and their importance

6 essential nutrients and their importance

Right from childhood, one is always advised to eat healthy meals. Terms like “balanced meals” and “essential nutrients” are common whenever there’s a conversation about eating healthily. But what exactly are these essential nutrients? There are six basic essential nutrients that the body needs to function properly. These nutrients are present in certain foods that one must eat to stay fit. Let’s understand what these six essential nutrients are and why the body needs them.

Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates, which people fondly refer to as “carbs,” are the fuel for the body as they give it its much-needed energy. They are also categorized into two types – simple carbs and complex carbs. Simple carbohydrates are the ones that are present in white rice, pasta, sugar, etc. It is important to limit their intake for healthy living and, instead, add more complex carbs to one’s daily meals. Complex carbs are present in foods like quinoa, brown rice, vegetables, etc. Along with providing energy, complex carbs also support the body’s immune system, nervous system, and digestive functions.

Protein
Protein is quite popular among fitness enthusiasts as it helps the body in building muscles. But along with that, the body needs protein for various other reasons. It helps the body in the development of skin, hair, nails, and bones. Further, it plays a crucial role in making hormones, enzymes, and antibodies. This essential macronutrient is present in several food items, such as red meats, poultry, eggs, seafood, beans and legumes, soy, nuts, and dairy products.

Fats
Despite being among the main essential nutrients, fats are known to have a bad rap. This is because a lot of people are unaware of healthy fats, which the body needs for numerous functions. For instance, fats help the body in the absorption of vitamins and minerals, blood clotting, cell growth, muscle movement, balancing blood sugar, and much more. These healthy fats include monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and are mainly found in nuts, fish, vegetable oils, and seeds.

Vitamins
There are a total of 13 different vitamins that the body needs. Each vitamin is required by the body for different but important reasons. Vitamins help the body enhance the immune system, strengthen teeth and bones, metabolize protein and carbs, improve brain functioning, and lower the risk of cancer, among other things. Different vitamins have different food sources. However, having a meal that contains different vegetables, fruits, and a source of lean protein can provide one with all the essential vitamins.

Minerals
Like vitamins, there are multiple different minerals that the body needs for proper functioning. Some of these include iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and iodine. All the essential minerals help the body in several ways, such as strengthening bones and teeth, helping in blood clotting, carrying oxygen, enhancing the immune system, and balancing water levels. Most nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables, cereals, and dried fruits are rich in essential minerals.

Water
It is no secret that water is crucial for one’s survival. But here is how it helps the body exactly – it transports nutrients throughout the body, flushes out toxins, keeps the body hydrated for smooth functioning, and helps in shock absorption.

Read Also

Know more about exciting & latest articles right here

12 surprising facts about COPD to know

12 surprising facts about COPD to know

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, also known as COPD, is a well-recognized respiratory ailment that affects millions of lives worldwide. COPD, characterized by symptoms like chronic cough, shortness of breath, and reduced lung function, is a complex condition with multiple layers. While its core features are understood by many, an array of surprising and often overlooked facets surrounds this condition. This article delves into these lesser-known aspects of COPD to comprehensively understand the disease. Underdiagnosed and misdiagnosed cases One of the most surprising facts about COPD is the prevalence of underdiagnosed and misdiagnosed cases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 90% of COPD cases are estimated to remain undiagnosed. This is partly because early symptoms, such as coughing and shortness of breath, are often attributed to the natural aging process or other respiratory conditions. Additionally, many individuals with COPD do not seek attention until the disease has progressed significantly. Impact on mental health COPD not only affects physical health but also takes a toll on mental well-being. Surprisingly, individuals with COPD are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. The disease’s chronic nature and its impact on daily activities and social interactions may lead to isolation and sadness.
Read More
7 lesser-known signs of multiple myeloma

7 lesser-known signs of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that primarily affects the plasma cells found in the bone marrow. Plasma cells typically produce antibodies to help the body fight infections. However, in multiple myeloma, certain plasma cells become cancerous and start to multiply uncontrollably, crowding out healthy blood-forming cells in the bone marrow. These cancerous plasma cells can produce abnormal proteins, which can accumulate in the blood and urine, leading to various health problems. Here are the lesser-known signs of multiple myeloma: Recurrent infections Multiple myeloma weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. However, this sign is often overlooked or attributed to other causes. Recurring or persistent infections, such as respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, or skin infections, can be an early indication of an underlying immune system dysfunction caused by multiple myeloma. The connection between multiple myeloma and infections lies in the disease’s impact on plasma cells’ production of antibodies. As the cancerous plasma cells multiply in the bone marrow, they crowd out healthy cells responsible for producing antibodies, impairing the body’s ability to fight infections effectively. Recognizing the link between recurring infections and multiple myeloma can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, which may improve the patient’s overall prognosis.
Read More
9 tips for changing the oil and filter on Dodge vehicles

9 tips for changing the oil and filter on Dodge vehicles

Dodge is a famous automobile manufacturer with an excellent lineup of trucks and SUVs. While its vehicles are known for performance and durability, they must be maintained well. A fundamental aspect of car upkeep is changing the oil and filters regularly. Whether one owns a robust Dodge truck or a versatile SUV, understanding the nuances of oil and filter changes can help the automobile run smoothly and extend its lifespan. The function of oil and filters in a vehicle Engine oil is a lubricating fluid that circulates throughout the engine to reduce friction between moving parts, dissipate heat, and protect against wear and tear. The oil filter is responsible for removing impurities and contaminants from the engine oil. The filter is replaced during routine oil changes to maintain its filtration capabilities. Tips for changing oil and filters in vehicles Oil and filters play crucial roles in the vehicle’s engine, ensuring it operates efficiently and remains in good condition. If one follows these tips, it will not only ensure engine longevity but also contribute to better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions: Use the right tools and materials Before starting, it’s important to gather all the right tools. One will need an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter, a container to catch the old oil (like an oil drain pan), a set of sockets or wrenches, a funnel to pour in new oil, a new oil filter, and the right type and sufficient amount of oil.
Read More
25 signs and symptoms of pneumonia to know of

25 signs and symptoms of pneumonia to know of

Pneumonia is a common respiratory infection that can affect people of all ages, causing various symptoms that vary in severity. At the same time, many are familiar with the hallmark signs such as fever and cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and numerous other indicators that can point to pneumonia. This comprehensive article thoroughly explores pneumonia’s signs and symptoms, helping individuals recognize the condition early and seek appropriate medical care. Fever Fever is one of the most prevalent symptoms of pneumonia. It typically presents with a high body temperature, often exceeding 100.4°F (38°C). Fever is the body’s natural response to infection and signifies that the immune system is actively fighting the pneumonia-causing pathogens. Cough A persistent cough is another hallmark symptom. It can produce different types of mucus, including yellow, green, or bloody. The cough may be accompanied by chest pain or discomfort ranging from mild to severe. Shortness of breath Many individuals with pneumonia experience shortness of breath, particularly when engaging in physical activities. This symptom occurs due to the inflammation and infection within the lungs, making it challenging for the respiratory system to function optimally. Chest pain Chest pain is often described as a sharp or stabbing sensation typically felt on the side of the affected lung.
Read More