Food is any substance consumed to provide nutritional support for an organism. It is usually of plant or animal origin and contains essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It may also contain energy in the form of calories. Food is usually consumed by animals and humans through a process of digestion. Plants, which convert solar energy into food through photosynthesis, are the primary source of food for humans and most other organisms. Animals that consume plants as their primary food sources serve as a source of food for other organisms through a process known as a food chain or web.
Modern societies are becoming increasingly dependent upon ready-to-eat foods that require minimal preparation before consumption. This has created major scientific challenges for food manufacturers who must produce high quality, nutritious foods with minimal time and effort. These challenges have led to the development of a scientific discipline that is called Food Science.
During the early phases of human evolution, people were hunter-gatherers who gathered and collected plants and killed the occasional animal for their meat and other edible parts. The hunter-gatherers ate a diet that consisted of about 35 percent meat and 65 percent plant food. These foods are rich in nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, iron and vitamin C. In addition to providing the body with important vitamins and minerals, these foods are a source of protein which is used for building muscles and other tissues. They also provide fiber which helps to keep the digestive system running smoothly.
A well-balanced diet should consist of foods from each of the 5 food groups. It is recommended to eat a variety of foods from each group daily in order to get all the different types and amounts of nutrients that are needed by the body.
When shopping for foods, look for items that are fresh and have a lot of visible color. These foods are more likely to be high in nutrients and low in fat. Also, choose organic or locally grown foods when possible. This will help to promote environmental sustainability and support local businesses. In addition, it is a good idea to check the ingredient list of foods to ensure that they do not have added sugar or salt.
If you are buying meat, fish or poultry, choose those that are labeled as low in fat. These foods are usually lower in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is also recommended to choose lean meats and seafood that are low in sodium. In addition, choose beans and legumes, which are a great source of protein. Also, consider choosing vegetables that are dark green or leafy such as kale, broccoli or brussel sprouts. Finally, choose whole grains over refined flour products when possible. This will provide the body with more fiber and B vitamins. Finally, remember to drink 8 to 12 cups of water daily.