Major Food Nutrients.pdf

Major Food Nutrients Nutrients Nutrients are substances in food that provide energy or that help your body work as it should. Nutrients are used to build and repair body tissues. ❖ The major nutrients are protein, carbohydrate, and fat. ❖ They provide the body with energy. ❖ This energy keeps your...

Major Food Nutrients Nutrients Nutrients are substances in food that provide energy or that help your body work as it should. Nutrients are used to build and repair body tissues. ❖ The major nutrients are protein, carbohydrate, and fat. ❖ They provide the body with energy. ❖ This energy keeps your heart beating, your brain active, and your muscles working. ❖ Protein Necessary for tissue formation, cell reparation, and hormone and enzyme production. It is essential for building strong muscles and a healthy immune system. Example meat, fish and chicken. ❖ Carbohydrates Provide a ready source of energy for the body and provide structural constituents for the formation of cells. Example rice, pasta and bread. ❖ Fat Provides stored energy for the body, functions as structural components of cells, and signaling molecules for proper cellular communication. It provides insulation to vital organs and works to maintain body temperature. Example ice cream and chips. ❖ Vitamins Regulate body processes and promote normal body-system functions. Example fruits, carrots and leafy greens. ❖ Minerals Regulate body processes, are necessary for proper cellular function, and comprise body tissue. Example eggs, nuts, banana and yogurt. ❖ Water Transports essential nutrients to all body parts, transports waste products for disposal, and aids with body temperature maintenance. Example apples, watermelons and peaches