“You are what you eat” is a very popular and ancient adage. However, the importance of its
meaning is still unknown to a lot of people. Many of us are still confused about the
Types of Nutrition our body requires. Essential nutrients are compounds that a person’s body
cannot produce in sufficient quantity. You need to consume them through dietary sources to
maintain optimal health. These nutrients are crucial in supporting a person’s good health,
reproduction and growth. While there are many essential nutrients, they are mostly divided
into two categories: macronutrients and micronutrients.

Micronutrients are nutrients that are consumed in small quantities, such as vitamins and
minerals. Although the body needs them only in small amounts, any deficiency can cause
health issues. Whereas macronutrients, are nutrients that are eaten in large amounts and
include the primary building blocks of your diet, such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats and
water. These nutrients combined provide your body with energy. Always remember, healthy
eating not only helps you live longer by preventing chronic diseases but also boosts your
energy and mood, increasing the overall quality of your life.

Here is a list of the five vital nutrients the human body needs.

5 Types of Nutrition

Carbohydrates:

Don’t let the low-carb diet fool you. Carbohydrates are necessary for your body. Basically,
they are starches or sugars that provide energy for all the cells and tissues in the body.
Carbohydrates fuel your body, especially your central nervous system and brain. But, before
you reach for that white bread or pasta, keep in mind that the type of carb you eat matters
a lot. There are two types of carbohydrates: simple and complex. You should limit your
intake of simple carbohydrates, such as pasta, white bread and rice. And instead, opt for
healthier carbs such as whole grains, beans, fibre-rich vegetables and fruits. Also, avoid
overly processed products that contain white flour and foods with added sugar.

Protein:

Protein is having its moment, not just in the workout community but all over, and for good
reason. It is extremely essential for good health. It is a macronutrient that provides the
building blocks for the body. Not just your muscles but every cell in the body needs protein
to function properly. Every cell, from bone to skin to hair, comprises of protein. Primarily,
protein is used for health, growth and body maintenance. It is made up of different amino
acids. While your body can create some amino acids by itself, many vital amino acids come
only from food. Eggs, meat and fish are good sources of essential amino acids; you can also
get protein from various plant sources like soy, beans and nuts.

Fats:

People often associate fats with bad health. However, recent research has shown that
healthy fats are important for maintaining optimal health. Fats help the body to carry out a
range of functions. Yes, they are high in calories, but those calories are an important source
of energy for your body. Including healthy fats in your diet can help in balancing your blood
sugar and decrease your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. But you should
remember to consume healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and
limit or avoid trans and saturated fats.

Vitamins and Minerals:

Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients that offer a range of health benefits. Vitamins are
vital for warding off diseases and minerals support the body in building strong bones and
teeth, regulating your metabolism, and staying properly hydrated. There are 13 essential
vitamins that the body needs, including vitamins A, C, B6, and D. And some of the most
common minerals are iron, calcium and zinc. Typically, if you eat a well-balanced diet full of
vegetables and fruits, you may not need vitamin supplements to reduce or avoid a
deficiency. Your body also needs a balance of minerals for optimal health.

Water:

Water is the most important essential nutrient that the human body needs. You can go for
weeks without food, but you can only survive a few days without water. Water is imperative
for every system in your body. The human body is made up of mostly water, and every cell
needs water to function. It helps to flush out toxins, hydrate the body, carry nutrients to
cells and prevent constipation. Even slight dehydration can make you feel tired, cause
headaches and impair your mental and physical functioning. The best source for water is to
drink natural, unsweetened water, but fruits that contain large amounts of water can also
be a great source. Your overall health depends on the Types of Nutrition you provide your
body with.