Nutritivi

Nutritivi is a term used in nutrition to describe substances that provide nourishment essential for the growth, maintenance, and functioning of living organisms. In common usage, nutritives are the nutrients that supply energy and support critical metabolic roles. The main categories are macronutrients—carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—that furnish energy and building blocks for tissues; and micronutrients—vitamins and minerals—that support a wide range of bodily processes. Water is essential for hydration and many metabolic reactions and is sometimes discussed separately from other nutritives.

Some nutritives are essential, meaning the organism cannot synthesize them in sufficient quantities and must obtain them from the diet (e.g., essential amino acids, certain fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals). Others are non-essential or conditionally essential, produced by the body under normal circumstances or required only in certain life stages or conditions.

Nutritives function to provide energy, supply structural components, regulate enzymes and hormones, maintain immune function, and support reproduction and development. Their bioavailability—the proportion actually absorbed and utilized—depends on food composition, preparation, and interactions with other nutrients.

Dietary guidelines emphasize a varied, balanced intake to ensure adequate nutritive supply while avoiding excesses. Nutrient density and avoidance of empty-calorie sources are common strategies in nutrition education.