The words “nutritional” and “nutritious” are related to diet and health but have different meanings and uses. “Nutritional” refers to anything related to the process of nutrition, such as the intake and use of food to support life and health. “Nutritious,” on the other hand, describes food that is healthy to eat or provides nourishment. Understanding these differences is important for discussing diet and health accurately. This lesson will define each term and provide examples to illustrate their proper usage.
Nutritional
Definition:
“Nutritional” is an adjective that pertains to nutrition, which is the process by which living organisms take in and utilize food substances. It is commonly used to describe information, content, or aspects related to nutrition.
Examples of use:
This chart contains nutritional information for certain menu items, including calories, fats, and vitamins.
The nutritional value of vegetables is high due to their content of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
The doctor provided nutritional guidelines to help manage her patient’s diabetes effectively.
Nutritious
Definition:
“Nutritious” is an adjective that means providing nourishment or being beneficial to health. It is used to describe foods that are rich in essential nutrients and are good for maintaining health and energy levels.
Examples of use:
To increase energy, eat nutritious foods like eggs, fruit, or whole-grain breads.
The lunch program aims to provide nutritious meals to ensure the well-being of all students.
Spinach is a nutritious vegetable that contains high levels of iron and vitamins.
Although “nutritional” and “nutritious” are closely related, they serve different purposes in language. “Nutritional” pertains to anything related to the science or process of nutrition, often used to discuss information or aspects related to food intake. “Nutritious,” however, specifically describes food that provides health benefits and is good for you.
