Question

Differentiate between nutritive and nonnutritive components of a diet.

Answer 1

Basis of Difference	Nutritive Components	Non-Nutritive Components
1. Meaning	Nutritive components are substances in the diet that provide nourishment and energy to the body.	Non-nutritive components are chemical compounds in foods that have no specific nutritional function.
2. Examples	Nutritive components include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and water.	Non-nutritive components include phytates, tannins, oxalates, goitrogens, phytochemicals, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, spices and coffee.
3. Energy value	Nutritive components provide energy, e.g. carbohydrates give 4 kcal per gram and fats give 9 kcal per gram.	Non-nutritive components generally provide no energy or calories to the body.
4. Essentiality	Nutritive components are essential for the body and must be supplied through the diet in required amounts.	Non-nutritive components are not essential for the body; some are naturally present while others are added to foods.
5. Function in the body	Nutritive components help in growth, repair, maintenance, regulation of body processes and production of energy.	Non-nutritive components either interfere with nutrient absorption, e.g. phytates and tannins, or provide beneficial effects like antioxidants and protection against diseases.
6. Health effect	Nutritive components maintain good health and their deficiency causes deficiency diseases.	Non-nutritive components may reduce nutrient availability or, like phytochemicals, help protect cells from damage and lower the risk of diseases.