Nutrition

Short Definition

Nutrition is the process by which living organisms obtain and use food for growth, energy, and maintenance.

Detailed Explanation

Nutrition is essential for all life processes. It involves ingestion, digestion, absorption, and assimilation of food. Organisms obtain nutrients differently depending on their type.

Types of Nutrition

• Autotrophic: Organisms make their own food (e.g., plants through photosynthesis).
• Heterotrophic: Organisms obtain food from others (e.g., animals, humans).

Human Nutrition

• Carbohydrates – provide energy
• Proteins – build and repair tissues
• Fats – store energy
• Vitamins and minerals – regulate body processes
• Water – essential for chemical reactions and transport

Importance

Proper nutrition is vital for health, growth, immunity, and normal functioning of the body. Malnutrition can lead to deficiency diseases and poor health.