The Function of Nutrients
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| The Function of Nutrients | |
| Carbohydrate | supplies energy assists in the utilization of fats |
| Protein | helps build and repair body tissues helps build antibodies |
| Fat | supplies energy aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, A,D, K, E |
| Vitamin A | aids in normal bone and tooth development aids in the development and maintenance of night vision aids in maintaining the health of the skin and membranes |
| Vitamin D | a factor in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth enhances calcium and phosphorus absorption and utilization |
| Vitamin E | protects the fat in body tissues from oxidation |
| Vitamin C | a factor in the development and maintenance of bones, cartilage, teeth and gums |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) |
releases energy from carbohydrate aids normal growth |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) |
factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation |
| Niacin | aids in normal growth and development factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation |
| Vitamin B6 | factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation |
| Folate | aids in red blood cell formation may play a role in the prevention of neural tube disorders |
| Vitamin B12 | aids in red blood cell formation |
| Calcium | aids in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth |
| Magnesium | factor in energy metabolism, tissue formation and bone development |
| Iron | factor in red blood cell formation |
| Zinc | factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation |
| Sodium | required for normal cell function and regulation of blood volume |
| Potassium | required for normal cell function needed for proper nerve, muscle and blood cell function |
| Fibre | soluble fibre plays a role in lowering blood cholesterol and controlling blood sugars insoluble fibre promotes satiety (a feeling of fullness), which may help with weight management; it also promotes regularity important for normal bowel function |
Adapted from: Health Canada (http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/labeti/guide/ch8e.shtml#a8_5) and Institute of Medicine of the Nation Academies. Dietary Reference Intakes. The Essential Guide to Nutrient Requirements. The National Academies Press. Washington: 2006.