NUTRITION & DIETETICS
Nutrition and Dietetics is the science of food, nutrients, and their impact on health, combined with the practical application of diet planning and therapy to prevent and manage diseases. It bridges biology, chemistry, and healthcare to promote wellbeing through proper dietary choices.
What is Nutrition?
- Definition: Nutrition is the science that studies food, nutrients, and how the body uses them for growth, energy, and health.
- Key Nutrients: Carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.
- Functions:
- Provides energy for daily activities
- Supports growth and tissue repair
- Regulates body processes (e.g., hormones, enzymes)
- Prevents nutrient deficiencies and related diseases
What is Dietetics?
- Definition: Dietetics applies nutrition science to design and manage diets for individuals and groups.
- Focus Areas:
- Diet planning: Creating balanced diets based on age, health, and lifestyle.
- Therapeutic diets: Modifying food intake for medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension).
- Public health dietetics: Promoting healthy eating in communities.
- Clinical dietetics: Working in hospitals to support patient recovery.
Role of Nutritionists and Dietitians
- Nutritionists: Study food and nutrients, often working in education, research, or public health.
- Dietitians: Licensed professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat dietary problems in clinical or community settings.
- Skills Required: Nutritional assessment, counseling, food service management, and ethical practice.
🧪 Scientific Foundations
- Chemistry & Biochemistry: Understanding nutrient composition and metabolism.
- Physiology: How the body processes food.
- Psychology & Sociology: Eating behaviors and cultural influences.
- Public Health: Designing programs to reduce malnutrition and lifestyle diseases.
Applications in Health
- Disease Management: Diet therapy for obesity, cardiovascular disease, kidney disorders, and gastrointestinal problems.
- Preventive Care: Promoting balanced diets to reduce risks of chronic illnesses.
- Specialized Nutrition: Pediatric, geriatric, and sports nutrition.