essential nutrient


essential dietary component

Clinical nutrition
A required dietary component, without which a deficiency state develops; essential dietary components include water (1–2 litres/day), calories (2000–2800 kcal/day), carbohydrates, fat, protein, vitamins, minerals and fibre.

essential nutrient

Any food substance required for health or growth that is not synthesized in the body and must be present in the diet.