A balanced diet requires getting sufficient macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins and fats, as well as micronutrients including vitamins and mineral salts. Carbohydrates, proteins and fats all serve important functions in the body by providing energy, building structures, and regulating processes. In addition, fiber, water and vitamins are essential components of a balanced diet that support digestion, cellular functions and overall health.
Sir Frederick Gowland Hopkins took two sets of eight young rats and fed both sets a diet consisting of purified casein, starch, sucrose, mineral salts, lard and water. In addiction, one set was given 3 cm3 of milk every day for the first 18 days of the experiment. Milk contains vitamins. After 18 days the milk supplement was withdrawn from the first set and given to the second set of young rats until the end of the experiment. The results demonstrate the importance of vitamins in the growth rate of young rats.
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