Nutrition plays an important role in healthcare. That is why it is crucial to understand the significance of nutrition. Lack of nutrition causes many health problems and gives you a burden of malnutrition.
What is nutrition, and why is it essential?
Nutrition provides nourishment, energy, and strengthens the immune system. A well-balanced diet can take you far away from many chronic health issues. Healthy foods provide proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, and fats. Which promotes overall health, gives energy, reduces the chance of deficiencies and chronic disorders. Proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, vitamins, and water are essential nutrients for a healthy human body. While processed, junk, salty, sugary, fatty foods lead to an improper diet. In which body function depletion is normal. The immune system becomes weak, deficiencies trigger, chronic illness Star to get involved and then the whole performance of the body becomes dull.
How do nutrients help in disease prevention?
Nutrient-dense foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that combat inflammation, neutralize free radicals, and promote cellular health. Each of them has their role and functions.
MedBound Times connected with the specialist Dt. Sudhakar Mishra, Clinical Dietician & Sports Nutritionist for his opinion on Influence of nutrition on disease prevention and management.
Healthy eating contributes to an overall sense of well-being, and is a cornerstone in the prevention of numerous conditions. Your diet is a bank account. Good food choices are good investments.Dt. Sudhakar Mishra, Clinical Dietician & Sports Nutritionist
ANTIOXIDANTS
(vitamin C, E, lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and polyphenols)
Role
Antioxidants protect our cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Which are unstable molecules that can harm cells and lead to chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease and neurodegenerative disorder.
Disease prevention
Antioxidants reduce the risk of chronic disease, cancers, and age-related macular degeneration by protecting against oxidative damage to blood vessels, by neutralizing free radicals that can lead to DNA damage, and by protecting the retina from oxidative damage respectively.
FIBER
(Cellulose, Beta-Glucan, and Pectin)
Role
Fiber helps to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and is also beneficial for digestive health. It reduces the risk of colorectal cancer, as it is good for gut health.
Disease prevention
Fibers reduces the risk of developing heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and maintaining healthy blood pressure. Fiber-rich diets also lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer. Soluble fiber slows the absorption of sugar, helping to improve blood sugar levels.
OMEGA-3
(Alpha-linolenic Acid, Eicosapentaenoic Acid, and Docosahexaenoic Acid)
Role
Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that the body cannot produce on its own. They are crucial for cardiovascular health, brain function, and inflammation reduction.
Disease prevention
Omega-3 fatty acids reduce heart disease risk by lowering triglycerides and inflammation, support brain health, and reducing cognitive decline. It protects eye health from age-related issues, have anti-inflammatory effects, and benefiting conditions like arthritis. It may improve mood and mental health through brain function support.
B VITAMINS
(B6, B12, and Folate)
Role
B Vitamins play a crucial role in energy metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell production. It prevents beriberi, neural tube defects, and anemia.
Disease prevention
B Vitamins prevents beriberi, neural tube defects, and anemia by supporting nerve and muscle function, by aiding DNA synthesis and cell division, and by aiding red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis respectively. It promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails by supporting keratin production. It reduces stress and supports adrenal function by aiding hormone synthesis.
CALCIUM
(Calcium Citrate, Calcium Carbonate, and Calcium Phosphate)
Role
Calcium helps in bone health, cardiovascular health, muscle function, hormonal secretion, and nerve transmission. Adequate calcium intake helps prevent conditions like osteoporosis, hypertension, and muscle disorders.
Disease prevention
Calcium strengthens bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. It supports muscle function, including the heart, helping to regulate blood pressure and cell growth in the colon, potentially lowering the risk of cancer. It also alleviates symptoms such as cramps and mood swings during PMS.
PROTEINS
(Hemoglobin, Antibodies, and Enzymes)
Role
Protein is present in every body cell, and an adequate protein intake is important for keeping the muscles, bones, and tissues healthy. Protein is significant for growth and development, especially during childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy.
Disease prevention
Proteins prevent disease by supporting immune defense through antibodies that neutralize pathogens. They repair and maintain tissues, ensuring the body heals properly. Protein-based hormones regulate vital body functions, and enzymes facilitate metabolic reactions and detoxify harmful substances.
WATER
(H2O)
Role
Water hydrates cells, ensuring proper function and health. It regulates body temperature through sweating and respiration. Water also transports nutrients to cells and removes waste products. Additionally, it lubricates joints, aiding in smooth movement.
Disease prevention
Water prevents disease by keeping cells hydrated, which supports overall body function and immune health. It flushes out toxins and waste products, reducing the risk of infections and kidney stones. Proper hydration also helps maintain healthy skin and mucous membranes, acting as a barrier to pathogens.
CONCLUSION
The article outlines how nutrition plays a crucial role in disease prevention and management. A balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients, supports immune function, reduces inflammation, and maintains overall health. Good nutrition can prevent illness and manage existing conditions, enhancing quality of life.
References:
1. Newman, Tim. “What is nutrition, and why does it matter?,” January 9, 2020. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/160774#dietitian.
2. Hitesh. “Discover The Importance of Nutrition In Health | AAFT Online.” AAFT Online Blog, March 7, 2024. https://aaftonline.com/blog/importance-of-nutrition-in-health/.
3. Shephard Health. “The Role Of Nutrition In Disease Prevention,” n.d. https://shephardhealth.com/blog/the-role-of-nutrition-in-disease-prevention#:~:text=Eating%20foods%20that%20are%20high,helps%20to%20prevent%20common%20diseases.&text=The%20foods%20you%20eat%20contain,contributes%20to%20your%20overall%20health.
4. Lateef, Haseeb, and Mia Lucas. “The role of nutrition in disease prevention and management.” ResearchGate, July 30, 2023. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/372750924_The_role_of_nutrition_in_disease_prevention_and_management.