Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Nutritional Sciences

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Nutritional Sciences 1. Calorie vs. Calory The first pair of words that often causes confusion is 'calorie' and 'calory'. While 'calorie' refers to the unit of energy, 'calory' is an outdated term for the same. It's essential to use 'calorie' in modern nutritional discussions. 2. Carbohydrates vs. Sugars Carbohydrates and sugars are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Carbohydrates are a broader category that includes sugars, starches, and fibers. Sugars, on the other hand, are simple carbohydrates. So, all sugars are carbohydrates, but not all carbohydrates are sugars. 3. Minerals vs. Vitamins Minerals and vitamins are both essential nutrients, but they serve different functions. Minerals are inorganic substances required for various bodily processes, while vitamins are organic compounds that aid in metabolism and other functions. Both are crucial, but their roles differ. 4. Nutrient vs. Nutraceutical Nutrients are substances that provide nourishment, like proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Nutraceuticals, on the other hand, are products derived from food sources with potential health benefits. While all nutraceuticals are nutrients, not all nutrients are nutraceuticals.