Explore Nutrition

What is Nutrition?

Many factors play a part in a person's body staying healthy and fit, and one of the most significant contributors is the food that they eat. Nutrition is the food put into a body to provide nutrients for the body to gain energy and stay healthy. While nutrition is easy to lose sight of in the fast-paced days of busy lives, it is critical to sustaining life-long health.

There is no question that sugary drinks and snacks provide few nutrients that affect energy, growth, and immune system support. In contrast, many nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy proteins contribute to the body's ability, wellness, energy, and growth. Studies demonstrate that children and adults who are provided a nutrient-dense diet have stronger health and immune systems, a lower risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and live longer lives. In addition, children and adults with proper nutrition are able to focus better, learn more easily, and be more productive.

Nutritionists work with individuals and populations to determine what foods fuel bodies with the appropriate vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in order to maintain health or, in some cases, improve health. There is a multitude of options to work in a field related to nutrition, including government agencies, schools, clinics, and research facilities. Plus, while the basics of nutrition might be similar, individual needs can vary based on environment and genetics. Hence, nutrition is a highly varied field.

Nutritionists and dieticians require different routes in higher education, sometimes requiring clinical hours or supervised practices. The opportunities to continue learning and gain knowledge about nutrition are available from bachelor's degrees to master's programs. Some can also earn credentials such as certified nutrition specialists or clinical nutritionists.