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Diet refers to the food an animal eats every day. For humans to maintain good health and function properly, the diet must contain specific types of nutrients in appropriate amounts and proportions.
Key Definition: A balanced diet is a diet that contains all of the required nutrients, in suitable proportions, and the right amount of energy.
Humans need six types of nutrients in their diet:
In addition to these nutrients, the diet should contain fibre (roughage). Fibre is not technically a nutrient because it is not absorbed into the body. Instead, it passes straight through the digestive system and is eliminated in the faeces. However, it plays an important role in maintaining digestive health.
Every day, a person uses up energy. The amount of energy required depends on several factors:
The energy used each day comes from the food consumed. The body's energy balance is important:
Different nutrients provide different amounts of energy:
A person's diet may need to change at different times of their life:
During pregnancy: A woman needs to eat a little more each day and ensure extra intake of calcium and iron to help build the baby's bones, teeth, and blood.
During breastfeeding: Increased energy intake is required to support milk production.
As people age (50s and 60s): Most people need to eat less because their metabolism slows down.
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