, NUTRITION NURSING NUTRITION
Nutrition refers to the science of how the body uses nourishing substances from
food to support normal physiological functions and overall health.
Nutrition is more important than ever. Nutrition is particularly critical during periods of
rapid tissue growth and during illness. Nutrition is Essen to immune function for prevention
of or recovery from disase. With nutritional intervention it is possible to restore normal
nutritional status and improve outcomes such as,
-Reduction in infection and complications,
-Decrease in hospital lenght of stay,
-Improve wound healing,
-Reduction of mortality.
Type:
Food component that are usable by the body are known as Nutrients.
Functions of Nutrients:
• Supply energy for the body
• Ensure physical growth and cell maintenance
• Protect the body
If one or more nutrients are consistently missing from the diet, over time, serious illnesses may occur for example,
without the proper nutrients in the right amount, one can become blind, sterile or mentally retarded. Bones can
become brittle and break, teeth and hairs can fall out, and skin irritation may develop.
Classifications: Macronutrients:
Nutrients can be classified into two major categories: Carbohydrate, fats, protein, water
1. Macronutrients Carbohydrate and fat provide energy to the body’s
2. Micronutrients cells, while protein help build cells and tissues.
Appropriate proportions
Micronutrient:
Carbohydrate 45-65%
Vitamins, minerals and trace elements Fat 20-35%
Requires in small quantities but it is also necessary,
Protein 10-35%
most of the micronutrients are considered Essen
nutrients, indispensable to life processes, Additionally, Water provides no energy but are essential as the
most micronutrients are not produced within the body, medium in which all of the body’s chemical reactions
but must be obtained from food. takes place and it regulate body temperature
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