When ingested in excess, fat also contributes to certain diseases, such as, obesity and atherosclerosis. Carbohydrates The primary goal of carbohydrates is to supply energy. They are built of simple sugars and appear in all plant foods and milk. They make possible processes by which other nutrients are digested, absorbed and metabolized. Vitamins are organic, vital to life and must be ingested through food because the body is unable to synthesize them.
Some minerals are an essential part of one's diet while others have an undetermined function.
They are indestructible, inorganic elements rather than organic compounds, which make up the other nutrients. The recommended amount of water, approximately 2-3 quarts, is enormous compared to any other nutrient. Water is found in most foods and beverages and is generated from the metabolism of the energy producing nutrients. Many digestive enzymes, specific to certain nutrients, help throughout this process. For maximum health, it is important to eat a variety of foods in order to obtain the recommended amounts of all the nutrients and exercise regularly.