näringslärans

Näringsläran, often translated as nutrition science or the study of nutrition, is a scientific discipline concerned with the study of nutrients and other substances in food and drink, and how the body uses them in relation to growth, health, and disease. It explores the relationship between diet and health, focusing on what people eat and how it affects their bodies.

The field encompasses a wide range of topics including the roles of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) in the body. It also examines the impact of food components like fiber, water, and phytochemicals. Näringsläran investigates how the body digests, absorbs, metabolizes, and excretes these substances.

Key areas within näringsläran include understanding energy balance, nutrient deficiencies and excesses, and the development of diet-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. It also delves into the nutritional needs of different populations, including infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly, and athletes.

Furthermore, näringsläran plays a crucial role in public health by informing dietary guidelines, food policies, and public health campaigns aimed at improving population health through better nutrition. It also contributes to the development of therapeutic diets for individuals with specific health conditions. Research in näringsläran employs various methodologies, from laboratory studies on cellular and animal models to observational studies and randomized controlled trials in human populations.