What are nutrients?
The nutrients found in all foods and drinks provide nourishment for the body. This nourishment is in the form of:
- Substances which provide energy
- Building blocks for bone, muscle, organs, hormones and blood
- Substances needed for processes to occur in the body, like digestion
- Substances that protect the body
Nutrients are drawn from a wide variety of foods and the more varied your diet, the more likely you are to obtain all the nutrients you need.
| Protein | made up of amino acids |
| Fat | saturated, polyunsaturated (Omega 3 and 6) and monounsaturated |
| Carbohydrate | includes starches and sugars |
| Vitamins and minerals | play many crucial roles in the body's function and wellbeing, but do not provide energy (kilojoules). |
