Nutrients

A nutrient is an internal chemical product required by a cell to carry out its vital functions.It is defined as any element or compound that is required for a living creature´s metabolism.

Foods contain the principal nutrients,which are:Proteins,Carbohydrates,Lipids,Micronutrients,such as vitamins and minerals,and Water.Types of nutrients:if nutrients are classified according to their importance,they can be referred to as:

• Essential Nutrients:which are vital to the organism
• Non-essential Nutrients:which are not vital to the organism

If they are classified according to the quantity in which they are required,they are referred to as:

• Macronutrients:which provide energy,are needed daily in large quantities,and include proteins,carbohydrates and fats.These nutrients are the foundation of all diets.
• Micronutrients:these vitamins and minerals are found in foods in small quantities and are decisive for the normal functioning of the body,and for digestion.

If they are classified according to their function,they are referred to as:

• Energy nutrients:which provide the organism with the energy to carry out its necessary functions.
• Structural nutrients:which make up the body’s structure.These nutrients also facilitate growth.
• Regulatory nutrients:which are responsible for ensuring the correct functioning of the metabolism.They do not have energy-giving properties.