"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food." - Hippocrates
Nutrition is the science of food and how it nourishes our bodies. It encompasses the process of ingestion, digestion, absorption, metabolism, and excretion of food substances. Proper nutrition ensures growth, repair, and maintenance of our bodies, and aids in maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and promoting overall health.
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in determining the overall health of an individual. A well-balanced diet provides all the essential nutrients that our body requires to function efficiently. This includes a mix of macronutrients - carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as micronutrients - vitamins and minerals. Dietary choices can significantly influence our risk of developing numerous health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. It's not just about calorie counting; it's about choosing foods that offer maximum nutrition per calorie.