Why are vitamins called protective nutrients?

Vitamins are called protective nutrients because they help protect the body from diseases, strengthen immunity, and support the proper functioning of different body systems. They do not provide energy like carbohydrates and fats, but they are essential for maintaining good health.

Vitamins help the body perform many important functions. Vitamin A supports healthy eyesight, Vitamin C helps maintain healthy gums and improves the body's defence system, and Vitamin D helps in the development of strong bones and teeth by supporting calcium absorption.

A shortage of vitamins can reduce the body's ability to stay healthy and may lead to deficiency diseases. For example, lack of Vitamin A can cause night blindness, Vitamin C deficiency can cause scurvy, and Vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets.

Foods such as fruits, vegetables, green leafy vegetables, milk, eggs, and other nutrient-rich foods provide important vitamins. Eating a balanced diet with different food groups helps supply the vitamins needed for growth, protection, and overall well-being.