Japanese · Body & Health
栄養
eiyou
Nutrition / Nourishment
Intermediatenoun
Definition
The process of providing the body with the food necessary for health and growth. Japanese cuisine is widely regarded as among the most nutritionally balanced in the world.
Example
栄養バランスのとれた食事を心がけています。
I try to have meals with balanced nutrition.
Etymology
栄養 (eiyou) combines the kanji 栄 (ei), meaning 'to prosper', and 養 (you), meaning 'to nourish'. Historically, it has emphasized the importance of food for health.
How & Where It’s Used
栄養 is primarily used in formal contexts, particularly within health and nutritional discussions, and is commonly found in educational materials. It is widely understood across Japan.