What's Human Nutrition?

What is the definition of nutrition?

Nutrition is the sum total of the processes involved in the taking in and utilization of food substances by which growth, repair and maintenance of the body are accomplished. It involves ingestion, digestion, absorption, and simulation. Nutrients are stored by the body in various forms and drawn upon when the food intake is not sufficient.

What is the definition of food?

Edible or potable substance (usually of animal or plant origin, consisting of nourishing and nutritive components such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, essential mineral and vitamins, which (when ingested and assimilated through digestion sustains life, generates energy, and provides growth, maintenance, and health of the body.

What is the definition of diet?

The customary amount and kind of food and drink taken by a person from day to day; more narrowly, a diet planned to meet specific requirements of the individual, including or excluding certain foods.

What is the definition of a balanced diet?

A diet that contains all the essential nutrients needed for healthy growth and activity. A balanced diet is a diet that contains all the ingredients our body needs to continue its daily functions most effectively and healthily.

Here is a more detailed translation of each term:

Nutrition

• Chinese: 營養
• Pinyin: yíngyǎng
• English: nutrition
• Definition: The science of food and its relationship to health.

Food

• Chinese: 食物
• Pinyin: shíwù
• English: food
• Definition: Any substance that can be eaten or drunk to provide energy and nutrients to the body.

Diet

• Chinese: 飲食
• Pinyin: yǐnshí
• English: diet
• Definition: The food and drink that a person or animal eats regularly.

Balanced diet

• Chinese: 均衡飲食
• Pinyin: jūnhéng yǐnshí
• English: balanced diet
• Definition: A diet that contains all the nutrients that the body needs in the right proportions.