Six Essential Nutrients PDF

Six Essential Nutrients  What is Nutrition? ▪ The Study of nutrients and how the body uses them. So what is a nutrient? ▪ Substances that are important for the body’s growth and maintenance. ▪ Nutrients are found in the foods we eat. ▪ We need to eat a variety of foods because one fo...

Six Essential Nutrients  What is Nutrition? ▪ The Study of nutrients and how the body uses them. So what is a nutrient? ▪ Substances that are important for the body’s growth and maintenance. ▪ Nutrients are found in the foods we eat. ▪ We need to eat a variety of foods because one food does not have all the nutrients. There are 6 essential nutrients… ▪ Can Fanny Play Violin Much Worse?  Carbohydrates It is the body’s main source of energy. Two types: simple (sugars) & complex (starches) ▪ Simple: Crash & Burn Effect—comes from sugars—candy, soda, doughnuts ▪ Complex: Long term energy---comes from foods like pasta, bread, starchy vegetables like peas & potatoes Carbohydrates Continued Fiber is a special type of carbohydrate. It comes from plant sources only-- such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains It cannot be digested but aids in digestion by helping to eliminate waste products from the body.  Fats It is used by the body to store energy, insulates the body and protects organs. It has twice as many calories as carbohydrates. Fats are solid at room temperature & Liquids are referred to as oils. ▪ Types of fat include: saturated (which are solid at room temperature), unsaturated (which are liquid at room temperature, trans-fat and cholesterol.  Proteins Building blocks for the body for growth and repair. Your skin, hair, blood, muscles and vital organs are made of proteins. Proteins are made up of amino acids. Protein sources: Plant (incomplete) & Animal (complete) ▪ Plant sources: Beans, Soy, Lentils ▪ Animals sources: Beef, Pork, Fish, Eggs, Cheese, Poultry  Vitamins Vitamins are substances needed in small amounts to help regulate body functions. They help your body use other nutrients, store and use energy and fight infection. ▪ Examples include vitamin A, B, C, D, E & K Most come from fruits, veggies, & dairy. Some vitamins are stored in your body.  Vitamins Continued Some vitamins are fat soluble-stored in your fats. Some vitamins are water soluble-stored in the fluids in your body.  Minerals The main function is to control important chemical reactions in the body. They are needed in small amounts to help keep bones strong, teeth healthy, blood healthy. Your body needs 17 minerals daily They come from earth’s crust—examples are iron, calcium, and iodine (iron & calcium are included on nutrition facts label) ▪ Sources—milk, salt, spinach, fruits & veggies  Water Water is necessary for survival. Water keeps us hydrated. Water helps move foods and nutrients through our bodies; aids in digestion We need approximately 64 oz. daily. ▪ Sources: fruits, veggies, soups, juices, & dairy products.