Dietary factors refer to the nutrients, food components or other substances that are consumed through food and drinks. These factors can have an impact on health and well-being, including prevention and management of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity and certain types of cancer. Dietary factors include macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats), micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) and other bioactive compounds found in foods such as phytochemicals or probiotics. The balance of these dietary factors is important for maintaining good health, and any imbalance can lead to nutritional deficiencies or excesses that may contribute to chronic diseases.