The Function of Nutrients
| The Function of Nutrients | |
| Carbohydrate | supplies energyassists in the utilization of fats |
| Protein | helps build and repair body tissueshelps build antibodies |
| Fat | supplies energyaids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, A,D, K, E |
| Vitamin A | aids in normal bone and tooth developmentaids in the development and maintenance of night visionaids in maintaining the health of the skin and membranes |
| Vitamin D | a factor in the formation and maintenance of bones and teethenhances 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 carbohydrateaids normal growth |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation |
| Niacin | aids in normal growth and developmentfactor in energy metabolism and tissue formation |
| Vitamin B6 | factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation |
| Folate | aids in red blood cell formationmay 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 functionneeded for proper nerve, muscle and blood cell function |
| Fibre | soluble 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.
