Food is any material consumed in order to provide nutrition to an organism. The word food comes from the Latin word which means to cook. Generally, food is of animal, plant or even fungi source, and has necessary nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, or even minerals. There are a number of categories of food, but most people usually know food as calories and the amount of these is the most important factor when choosing what to eat. One could eat away without counting calorie intake, but one should also take into consideration the effect on the body of the food one consumes, including whether the calories consumed are good or bad for the body.

In the diet, most foods contain at least some of the following eight nutrients: protein, fat, mineral oil, vitamins, mineral salts, fibre, potassium, zinc, and phosphorus. The nutrient content of different foods is usually listed separately, although the nutrient content of whole foods such as vegetables, fruits and grains usually provides an overall summary of the nutrient content of the foods. The vitamins and minerals found in most foods are required for our bodies to function normally. Without these substances, the immune system would be unable to fight against diseases, and many of the nutrients needed by the body for healthy living are destroyed by the processing method used to prepare foods.

Fats, high calorie foods, sugary foods, salt and vinegar have been shown to stimulate the appetite. Many of these are naturally present in food, but some are added artificially and often at a high enough level to cause extra calories to be eaten. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which protect the body against the damage caused by free radicals in environmental pollution. High fiber foods such as cereals, breads, beans, potatoes, bran, and nuts also slow down the absorption of sugar, making it easier to avoid the temptation to snack between meals. Foods which are high in calcium are helpful in preventing osteoporosis, a common disease which causes the wearing away of bone. There are many more nutritious choices than simple sugar and salt, so adding foods which are nutritious and low calorie and adding others to your list of good food choices will ensure you get all the nutrients your body needs.