FOOD, NUTRITION AND NUTRITIONAL STATUS

 In the third chapter of Shreemat Bhagwat Geeta there is a line 'Anant Bhavati Bhootanee', which means 'the human being is made from food". This is a statement of fact. Everything in your body was once in the food you ate. The single cell from which you were conceived in your mother's womb, to your present size, food has become YOU. This process continues as long as you live.

Your brain, muscles, your blood and bones are all made from the food you eat. Food gives you energy and stamina for work. It also gives you emotional stability and security. And don't forget, the right' kind and amount of food gives you the appearance and feeling of radiant good health. This is the result of good nutrition.

Scientists are working constantly to increase our knowledge about food and nutrition, and to find ways to apply this knowledge in choosing the right foods, so that our body is well nourished.

You have learnt that food is the raw material from which your body is made. Food is made up of chemical components called nutrients. Food provides us with six major groups of nutrients-water, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins. Nutrition can be adequate or inadequate, depending on whether the foods provide essential nutrients in correct proportion or not.

In the Indian diet, carbohydrates contribute 70 to 80 per cent, fats 10 to 30 per cent and proteins 6 to 10 per cent of energy. Proteins account for about a sixth of our body weight. Minerals are not only part of our body structure, but are also important for the regulation of body processes. Vitamins are not only growth promoters, but also regulatory in nature. Water has many crucial functions in the body, such as solvent, regulator and lubricant. Physiological, psychological and socio~ulturaal re the three major groups of functions of food. You need to understand these varied functions so that you will plan meals with a view to meet these.


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