The Function of Nutrients

The Function of Nutrients

The Function of Nutrients
Carbohydratesupplies energyassists in the utilization of fats
Proteinhelps build and repair body tissueshelps build antibodies
Fatsupplies energyaids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, A,D, K, E
Vitamin Aaids in normal bone and tooth developmentaids in the development and maintenance of night visionaids in maintaining the health of the skin and membranes
Vitamin Da factor in the formation and maintenance of bones and teethenhances calcium and phosphorus absorption and utilization
Vitamin Eprotects the fat in body tissues from oxidation
Vitamin Ca factor in the development and maintenance of bones, cartilage, teeth and gums
Vitamin B1
(Thiamine)
releases energy from carbohydrateaids normal growth
Vitamin B2
(Riboflavin)
factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation
Niacinaids in normal growth and developmentfactor in energy metabolism and tissue formation
Vitamin B6factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation
Folateaids in red blood cell formationmay play a role in the prevention of neural tube disorders
Vitamin B12aids in red blood cell formation
Calciumaids in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth
Magnesiumfactor in energy metabolism, tissue formation and bone development
Ironfactor in red blood cell formation
Zincfactor in energy metabolism and tissue formation
Sodiumrequired for normal cell function and regulation of blood volume
Potassiumrequired for normal cell functionneeded for proper nerve, muscle and blood cell function
Fibresoluble fibre plays a role in lowering blood cholesterol and controlling blood sugarsinsoluble 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.

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