Essential nutrients are:
a. nutrients that the body can manufacture from raw materials
b. necessary nutrients that cannot be obtained from the diet
c. nutrients that pass through the body unabsorbed
d. nutrients that do not cause deficiency diseases if they are omitted from the diet
e. necessary nutrients that can be obtained only from the diet
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is e. necessary nutrients that can be obtained only from the diet.
Essential nutrients are substances the body requires to function properly but cannot produce on its own. Since the body is unable to synthesize these nutrients, they must be obtained through food or supplements. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining various bodily functions, including energy production, immune support, tissue repair, and the functioning of the nervous system.
Essential nutrients include vitamins, minerals, amino acids (from proteins), and fatty acids (from fats). For example, vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and collagen production, cannot be synthesized by the body and must be consumed in foods like citrus fruits, berries, and vegetables. Another example is omega-3 fatty acids, which play a key role in brain function and cell membrane structure. These can only be acquired from dietary sources such as fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Each essential nutrient has a specific role in the body. For instance, amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are involved in enzyme and hormone production. Fatty acids are important for maintaining healthy cell membranes and supporting brain function. Certain vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and vitamin D, are necessary for bone health, while others, like iron, are required for oxygen transport in the blood.
If essential nutrients are omitted from the diet, the body cannot function optimally and can develop deficiencies that lead to various health problems. Therefore, it is critical to ensure a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods to meet the body’s needs for these essential nutrients.