Introduction to Nutrition

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Nutrition plays an integral role in our health. Proper nutrition not only provides energy and essential nutrients; it can also improve mood, strengthen the immune system, prevent and treat chronic illness, and contribute to an overall state of well-being. Poor nutrition can lead to fatigue, poor work performance, suboptimal mood, chronic disease and even premature death.

Heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes mellitus are among the leading causes of death and accounted for greater than half of all deaths in 2007 (1). These diseases are known to be affected by nutrition. In 1999 Frazao estimated that healthier diets could save $33 billion per year in health care costs related to these four diseases (2). Therefore, it is critical that primary care physicians understand elements of basic nutrition so that we can help patients achieve optimal levels of health.

This module is also for U-M Department of Family Medicine Residents during July Block Month.

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While the content of the UMHS web site is frequently updated, medical information changes rapidly and therefore, some information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies or typographical errors.

The University of Michigan Health System Web site does not provide specific medical advice and does not endorse any medical or professional service obtained through information provided on this site or any links to this site.

Note: This module was originally developed by U-M Department of Family Medicine residents, Suzanne Ross, M.D., and Jamie Szelagowski, M.D., in 2011. It is maintained by faculty member, Amy B. Locke, M.D. Last updated: May 2013.