What role does nutrition play in disease prevention?

Nutrition plays a critical role in disease prevention primarily because it provides essential nutrients that support immune function. A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, and other nutrients helps maintain the body's defenses against pathogens and can enhance the immune response. Essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are known to play significant roles in bolstering the immune system and enabling it to function optimally. Furthermore, optimal nutrition can help manage body weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and support overall health.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the comprehensive understanding of nutrition's role in health and disease prevention. The idea that nutrition increases susceptibility to infections is misleading, as poor nutrition can indeed weaken immune function, but adequate nutrition strengthens it. Suggesting that nutrition has no significant impact on health overlooks extensive research demonstrating clear links between dietary choices and health outcomes. Lastly, promoting unhealthy eating habits contradicts the concept that proper nutrition can lead to disease prevention; it emphasizes the need for balanced diets to foster health rather than detract from it.