Knowledge, in the field of nutrition, is relatively new, especially regarding the vitamins and some trace elements, and medical practitioner not always as well informed in nutrition as they should be. Consequently, while information on the early symptoms of nutritional deficiency is often available, some cases of dietary inadequacy may go unnoticed to the detriment of those involved.
The need to maintain a nutritionally adequate diet has spurred the development of data relating to dietary needs. The Food and Nutrition Board of the National Research Council has published a table of recommended dietary allowances that are considered adequate for optimum boy functioning.
When the dietary intake is insufficient for short periods, body reserves may be substituted, especially for energy needs, but eventually, the body must be replenished with essential food components. When the dietary intake is insufficient for long periods, disease resulting for inadequate nutrition will develop.
By gross analysis, in terms of food components, humans have been reported to consist of approximately 18% protein, 0.6% carbohydrate, 15.5% fat, 3% minerals, 0.000001% vitamins, and the rest about 63% water. It is considered by many experts in nutrition that the body requires daily helpings of food from certain basic food groups that include
- Meats, poultry, fish, eggs and beans
- Green and yellow vegetables
- Milk, cheese and other dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Fruits
