Are You a Nutrition Pro?

Nutrition and Healthy Eating: Understanding the Importance of a Balanced Diet and Making Healthy Food Choices

• Nutrition refers to the process of obtaining and using food for growth, development, and health, which involves the ingestion, digestion, absorption, transport, metabolism, and excretion of nutrients from the food we eat.
• Nutrients are substances found in food that provide us with energy, promote growth and repair, and support the proper functioning of our body systems, and there are six main classes of nutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.
• A balanced diet is one that provides us with all the nutrients we need in the right amounts and should include a variety of foods from all the food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy.
• Eating a balanced diet is important for many reasons, including energy, growth and repair, brain function, disease prevention, and hydration.
• Making healthy food choices can be challenging, and some tips to help include choosing whole foods, reading labels, portion control, limiting sugary drinks, cooking at home, being mindful, and planning ahead.
• Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for our body, and they are found in foods such as bread, pasta, rice, and fruits.
• Proteins are essential for the growth and repair of our body tissues, such as muscles, bones, and organs, and they are found in foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and beans.
• Fats are important for brain function and development, and they help our body absorb vitamins. Healthy fats are found in foods such as nuts, seeds, avocados, and fish.
• Vitamins and minerals help our body fight off diseases and infections, and they are found in foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy.
• Water is essential for keeping our body hydrated, which is important for our physical and mental wellbeing.
• Whole foods are foods that are minimally processed and are in their natural state, and they are rich in nutrients and have fewer added sugars, salt, and unhealthy fats.
• Pay attention to the portion size of the foods you eat, avoid distractions while eating, plan your meals and snacks ahead of time, and keep healthy snacks on hand to help you resist unhealthy snacks.