Newspapers, radio, and TV are filled with advice about the foods we eat, the air we breathe, and the lifestyles we develop. However, we must address these concerns in as rational a manner as possible. By basing our judgments on the best scientific evidence available, we can draw some conclusions as to whether the nutritional status of our children is fine or whether there is need for concern. A nutrient is a substance that the body must have to function properly. All nutrients are found in our food supply.
Nutrients can be proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, or water.
When we look at nutritional status, we are asking if a person has adequate amounts of nutrients. We want the body to function at its best, not to just get by. But the nutrients we need are not provided just by eating the right foods. Other factors such as exercise, stress, even weather can influence how our body is able to use the nutrients. Assessing nutritional status As a science, nutrition is relatively young.