The Function of Nutrients

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.