Containing substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition. Providing nourishment efficiently and effectively.
Latin 'nutritius' from 'nutrire' meaning to nourish or feed, related to 'nutrix' (wet nurse). The word entered English in the 17th century as scientific understanding of diet and health developed, emphasizing beneficial rather than merely filling foods.
The concept of 'nutritious' evolved dramatically with modern biochemistry - medieval people knew some foods were healthier than others, but couldn't explain why until we discovered vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients. Interestingly, many traditional food combinations (like beans and rice) are nutritionally complete by accident of cultural evolution!
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