The primary focus of nutrition is to study how food and its components affect health, growth, and overall well-being. This field examines the biological processes involved in the digestion, absorption, metabolism, and utilization of nutrients. Nutritionists and dietitians provide guidance on dietary choices, helping individuals and populations achieve optimal health through balanced diets that meet their nutritional needs. Research in nutrition also addresses topics like the role of nutrients in preventing diseases, the effects of dietary patterns on health outcomes, and the influence of food policy and public health initiatives on community nutrition.