UNIT 3 Nutritional needs Nutritional Needs. Nutrition is a critical component of nursing care, impacting the health and recovery of patients. In nursing, understanding the nutritional needs of individuals across various life stages and health conditions is essential for providing holistic patient care. 1. Definition of Nutrition Nutrition is the science of food and how it affects the body, including its digestion, absorption, metabolism, and excretion. Adequate nutrition is crucial