WHY DO PEOPLE EAT

Food is simply defined as any substance (nutritious or with empty calories) either solid or liquid that people or animal eat or that plant absorbs to ensure continuity of life. Food contains essential nutrients such as Carbohydrates, Fats and Oils, Proteins, Vitamins, Minerals and Water. 

Food is basically the main source of energy and nutrients which are used in the body of an organism to sustain growth.

FUNCTIONS OF FOOD

There are three major classes of functions of food;

1. PHYSIOLOGICAL FUNCTION

.. Food provides energy that the body uses to sustain voluntary and involuntary activities

.. Food helps to improve the immune system

.. Food helps to maintain body structure

2. SOCIAL FUNCTIONS

.. Expression of love, friendship, happiness, joy 

.. Food can be distributed at party's or social functions

.. Tradition and Beliefs

3. PSYCHOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS

This is dependent of emotional needs and familiarity with foods or environment. It's based on instincts.

REASONS WHY PEOPLE EAT

Eating is an activity that is pleasurable. Most people eat to satisfy their hunger or to taste new food products or due to aroma the food gives or peer pressure or because it's a common tradition or perhaps culture. 

There are few specific basic reasons why an average individual consumes or eat foods:

1. For Cleansing

2. Mood

3. Flavour or Aroma

4. External Influences (Media)

5. For Energy

6. Prevention and Fighting Against Diseases

7. For Growth and Function

8. For Social Gatherings and Enjoyment

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Article by:

Olukogbe Oluwagbemisola

Food, Nutrients and Health

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