46. Nutrition and the regulation of food intake
46. Nutrition and the regulation of food intake
- Gillian Pocock, Gillian PocockSenior Lecturer in Clinical Science, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, UK
- Christopher D. RichardsChristopher D. RichardsEmeritus Professor of Experimental Physiology, Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Life Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- and David A. RichardsDavid A. RichardsAssociate Professor, Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Husson University School of Pharmacy, Bangor, Maine, USA
Abstract
This chapter talks about diet, which is the selection of foods eaten by an individual. It explains what a nutrient is, which is any substance that is absorbed into the bloodstream from the diet and utilized to promote the various functions of the body. Nutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, mineral salts, and water. These are essential to health and a balanced diet contains appropriate amounts of each nutrient. The chapter notes a key function of diet, which is to provide the source of energy for cell metabolism. The chapter finally looks at the nutritional requirements of the body as a whole.
