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Nutrition and the body
Nutrition begins with the whole dietary pattern. Foods provide energy, building materials and nutrients that support normal function. Supplements can address specific needs but cannot reproduce a complete diet and its habits.
In-depth articles
All articles →A map of related concepts; see the entries and sources for detail.
These are different dietary measures, not additive or supplement doses; individual needs vary.
Reference entries
Four jobs of nutrition
Nutrition supplies energy, structural materials, biochemical cofactors and signals. Vitamins and minerals support reactions; they are not extra calories.
Start with the dietary pattern
Diet quality, total energy and diversity come first. Supplements may fill specific gaps but cannot reproduce a meal’s protein, fibre, food structure or lasting habits.
Translate nutrients into everyday food
The 2022 Chinese guideline recommends over 12 foods daily and over 25 weekly, at least 300 g/day of fresh vegetables and 200–350 g/day of fruit. Ingredient counts in a powder cannot replace food diversity.
Four principles of a healthy diet
WHO describes adequacy, balance, moderation and diversity as foundations of a healthy diet. Specific food patterns can differ across regions.
The role of supplements
Supplements can help address specific needs, but do not replace dietary diversity or necessary medical treatment. Evaluate their role alongside actual diet and target population.