A diet which contains all the nutrients, namely carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals and fats in right amounts, is called a balanced diet. It should also contain sufficient amounts of dietary fibre and water.
Every nutrient plays a different and important role in our body. Carbohydrates and fats provide energy to the body, so foods rich in these nutrients are called energy giving foods. Proteins help the growth and repair of body parts, so foods rich in proteins are called body building foods.
Vitamins and minerals protect our body from various diseases, so foods which are rich sources of vitamins and minerals are called protective foods.
Lastly, water plays a very important role in our body. It helps to get rid of the liquid waste in the form of urine and sweat. It also helps our body to absorb the dissolved nutrients.
Hence, we should always make sure we eat a balanced diet for the proper growth and maintenance of our body.