Nutrient: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in scientific or health-related discussions to refer to essential substances that organisms need to live and grow.

• Nutrients such as vitamins and minerals are vital for maintaining a healthy body

Used in more formal contexts to refer to the process of providing or receiving the food necessary for health and growth.

• The soup provided the necessary nourishment to recover from her illness

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to anything that people eat or drink to sustain life and maintain health.

• We need to buy some food for the picnic tomorrow

Typically used in a metaphorical sense to describe something that drives or energizes a person, machine, or process. Can also refer to actual fuel for vehicles.

• Her enthusiasm was the fuel that kept the team going through the long nights
• Gasoline is the fuel for most cars

General term for substances that provide nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life.

• Fruits and vegetables are rich in essential nutrients.
• The body requires a variety of nutrients to function properly.

Specific term used to describe elements that are crucial for the biological processes of organisms, often used in scientific contexts.

• Iron is an essential element for the production of red blood cells.
• Plants need several essential elements such as nitrogen and phosphorus.

In the context of nutrition, refers to inorganic substances needed by the body for good health.

• Calcium is a vital mineral for bone health.
• Potassium is an important mineral that helps regulate fluid balance.

Organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for normal metabolic function and must be obtained from the diet.

• Vitamin C helps strengthen the immune system.
• A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to weak bones.