Essential Nutrients and Why Your Body Needs Them

Essential nutrients are compounds that the body can’t make or can’t make in sufficient quantity. According to the World Health Organization, these nutrients must come from food, and they’re vital for disease prevention, growth, and good health. hey can be broken into two categories: macronutrients – protein, carbohydrates, and fat-  and micronutrients – vitamins and minerals.

1. Protein

Protein is essential for good health. Protein provides the building blocks of the body,
and not just for muscle. Every cell, from bone to skin to hair, contains protein.
While meat, fish, and eggs are good sources of essential amino acids, you can also get protein from plant sources like beans, soy, nuts, and some grains. Exactly how much protein you need daily depends on a variety of factors including how active you are, and your age.

2. Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are necessary for a healthy body. Carbs fuel your body, especially your central nervous system and brain, and protect against disease. Opt for whole grains, beans, and fiber-rich vegetables and fruits instead of refined grains and products with added sugar.

3. Fats

Fats often get a bad rap, but recent research has shown that healthy fats are an
important part of a healthy diet. They supports many of your body’s functions such as vitamin and mineral absorption, blood clotting, building cells, and muscle movement. Unsaturated fats are important for your body as they provide essential fatty acids your body can’t make. You can find these healthy fats in nuts, seeds, fish, and vegetable oils.

4. Vitamins

Vitamins are vital for warding off disease and staying healthy. The body needs these
micronutrients to support its functions. There are 13 essential vitamins that the body needs to function properly. If you eat a varied, well-balanced diet full of vegetables and fruits, and have a normal and healthy functioning digestive tract, you likely don’t need to take vitamin supplements.

5. Minerals

Much like vitamins, minerals help support the body. They’re essential for many body
functions, including building strong bones and teeth, regulating your metabolism, and staying properly hydrated. Some of the most common minerals are calcium, iron, and zinc.

6. Water

You can go for weeks without food, but you can’t last more than a few days without
water. Water is absolutely crucial for every system in your body. It’s also the main thing you are made of. Water improves your brain function and mood. You don’t have to chug water to stay hydrated. Fruits and vegetables can also be a great source.

Sources: Health Line