Every field of science is governed by a set of principles that provides the foundation for growth in knowledge.
These principles change little with time.
Knowledge of the principles of nutrition listed bellow will serve as a springboard to greater understanding of the nutrition and health relationships explored later on.
PRINCIPLE #1- Food is a basic need of humans.
Humans need enough food to live and the right assortment of foods for optimal health People who have enough food to meet their needs at all times experience food security. They are able to acquire food in socially acceptable ways – without having to scavenge or steal food.
Food insecurity exists when the availability of safe, nutritious foods, or the ability to acquire them in socially acceptable ways, is limited or uncertain. About 12% of U.S. households are food insecure.
PRINCIPLE #2 – Foods provide energy (calories), nutrients, and other substances needed for growth and health.
People eat foods for many different reasons. The most compelling reason is the requirement for calories (energy), nutrients, and other substances supplied by foods for growth and health.
