Food is what people and animals eat to live. It usually comes from animals and plants and is eaten by living things to provide energy and nutrition. Food contains the nutrition that people and animals need to be healthy. The consumption of food usually is enjoyable to us. It contains protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, water, and minerals. Liquids used for energy and nutrition are often called “drinks.”
Eating a variety of foods is essential to life. In other words, we need to eat to live. Our bodies cannot manufacture all the substances we need, and therefore, we must consume foods to produce energy and provide the building blocks necessary to sustain life.
Food for humans is mostly made through farming or gardening. It includes animal and vegetable sources. Some people refuse to eat animal-origin food, like meat, eggs, and milk products. Not eating meat is called vegetarianism. Not eating or using any animal products is called veganism.
Food provides nutrients, energy for activity, growth, and all functions of the body such as breathing, digesting food, and keeping warm; materials for the growth and repair of the body, and keeping the immune system healthy.
It provides the energy that our bodies need to keep going. Without food, a person would typically survive for a few weeks. Without water, they could only live for a few days.
A healthy diet throughout life promotes healthy pregnancy outcomes, supports average growth, development, and aging, maintains healthy body weight, and reduces chronic disease risk leading to overall health and well-being. Eating well is fundamental to good health and well-being. Healthy eating helps us to maintain a healthy weight. It reduces our risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and cancers.
Five significant benefits of eating:
- To maintain a healthy weight
- To have a healthy heart
- To have strong bones and teeth
- For better mood and energy levels
- For improved memory and brain health
