Nutrition 101

Macronutrients

• Carbohydrates:
  • Provide energy for the body
  • Found in: grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and sugary foods
  • Examples: starches, sugars, and fiber
• Proteins:
  • Build and repair tissues in the body
  • Found in: animal products (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy), legumes, nuts, and seeds
  • Examples: casein, whey, and gluten
• Fats:
  • Provide energy and help absorb vitamins
  • Found in: animal products, oils, nuts, and seeds
  • Examples: triglycerides, cholesterol, and phospholipids

Micronutrients

• Vitamins:
  • Essential for various bodily functions
  • Found in: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and animal products
  • Examples: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D
• Minerals:
  • Important for maintaining proper bodily functions
  • Found in: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and animal products
  • Examples: calcium, iron, and potassium

Water and Fiber

• Water:
  • Essential for bodily functions, such as temperature regulation and digestion
  • Makes up approximately 60% of an adult's body weight
• Fiber:
  • Important for digestive health and satiety
  • Found in: whole grains, fruits, and vegetables

Other Components

• Phytochemicals:
  • Plant-derived compounds with potential health benefits
  • Examples: antioxidants, flavonoids, and carotenoids
• Additives:
  • Substances added to food to enhance flavor, texture, or appearance
  • Examples: preservatives, sweeteners, and colorants