# Explain why a balanced diet is important for the healthy functioning of the human body.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 1.3.1 Diet and nutrition · Explain · 4 marks

> A balanced diet contains the correct amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, fibre, and water. Without a balanced diet, a person may develop a deficiency disease or suffer from malnutrition.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Carbohydrates and/or fats are needed to provide energy (for metabolic processes / respiration).
2. Proteins are needed for growth and repair of cells/tissues.
3. Vitamins and/or minerals are needed to prevent deficiency diseases.
4. Fibre is needed to aid the movement of food through the digestive system / prevent constipation; water is needed for chemical reactions / transport in the body.

## Key terms

- [balanced diet](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/balanced-diet)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-balanced-diet-is-8f8894f1) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.