Carbohydrates
About 40-50 substances include this group, which have been recognized as essential for normal growth and the maintenance of health. Among these vital nutrients are water, oxygen, about 8 amino acids, 4 fat-soluble vitamins, 10 water-soluble vitamins, 3 electrolytes, and numerous minerals. To perform important activities and maintain a constant temperature, the body requires energy.
Carbohydrates belong to the main food substances of vital nutrients. They contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen and provide movement and heat energy for the organism. The science that deals with the biology of carbohydrates is called Glycobiology.
Proteins
Mainly, body tissues are formed from proteins. But also enzymes and some hormones. Proteins are macromolecules built from amino acids. Some of the amino acids are so-called essential amino acids that must be supplied through food.
Fats
Vital nutrients include fats, however, a tendency towards excessive fat accumulation leads to further symptoms such as
- Heart and circulatory diseases
- Liver diseases (fatty liver), diabetes
- Kidney diseases and gallstones
- Rheumatic complaints and shortness of breath.
Fats are chemical compounds built from carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Minerals
Minerals are essential, inorganic nutrients. The main elements are calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, iron, and iodine. Without minerals, nothing works in the body. Whether in metabolism, growth, blood formation or in the interaction of nerves and muscles. A balanced diet covers the need. However, it is important to be supplied with all minerals because one mineral cannot replace another.
Vitamins
Not to forget are the vitamins. The vitamins A-K are vital substances that are taken up by the body as so-called essential food components. They generally ensure the functioning of metabolism. Vitamins strengthen the immune system and are indispensable for building blood cells, cells, teeth, and bones. Thus also indispensable for the vital nutrients.
The conclusion about the vital nutrients is that the body daily requires approximately
- 60 minerals,
- 15 vitamins,
- 12 essential amino acids and
- 3 essential fatty acids
.
Everyone is responsible for their health and well-being and should always ensure a balanced and healthy diet with the vital nutrients.