Definition & Meaning

Definition of Food

Food is any substance consumed to provide nutritional support and energy.

Food can be defined as anything edible that can be solid, semisolid or liquid which when swallowed,digested and assimilated in the body, proves useful to it. Food contain important substances which provide energy to move , think, work,run our body system, keep us healthy , help to boost our immune system and protect us from diseases. the food we eat or  take is used for growth , maintenance , and body function.

Functions of Food

The Physiological functions-  

1. To provide energy- Body needs fuel for voluntary and involuntary Activities.

• Carbohydrate and fat rich foods are main sources.

• Carbohydrate are starch, sugars and cellulose. Fat Sources are vanaspati, butter, ghee, nuts and oil seeds.

One gram of carbohydrate yields four kilocalories, one gram of fat yields nine kilocalories, one gram of protein yields four kilocalories.

2. To repair body tissues- Body tissues are continually broken down and replaced by new ones. Proteins, minerals and water Is required to replace them.

3. To build new cells and tissues- Proteins, water and minerals build cells muscles and blood. Protein sources are cereals and pulses. Animal protein comes from milk products eggs, fish and meat. Minerals are found in egg, meat, fish, green leafy vegetables etc.

4. To regulate body processes- Essential fatty acids present in certain fats, Proteins, minerals, vitamins and water all Perform certain regulatory functions, Coagulation of blood, maintenance of blood Temperature, activation of enzymes etc.

5. To protect against diseases- Vitamins and minerals protect body from injury and diseases. They help in regulating growth, muscular co-ordination, eye sight, digestion and other body processes. These are present in green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, milk, meat, liver and eggs etc.

The social functions of food- Human is a social being food helps him to be social. During special occasion like marriages, birthdays etc. food is an important ingredient.

The psychological functions of food- Food satisfies certain emotional needs.

• Food is used to express feelings of special attention, friendship, recognition or punishment.