NUTRITION : I T ’ S WHAT WE EAT !! EQ: How can I tell if the food that I am eating is nutritious?
VOCABULARY Calorie Carbohydrate Diet Fat Fiber Mineral Protein Vitamin Water
W HAT ARE THE 6 ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS FOUND IN FOOD ? There are six essential nutrients found in food. They are: CARBOHYDRATES PROTEINS FATS VITAMINS MINERALS WATER
CARBOHYDRATES Carbohydrates are simple or complex sugars that are found in food. Carbohydrates are used for heat and energy; there are 4 calories in one gram. Carbohydrates are found in starches (potatoes), sugars (honey, table sugar), grains (breads, pastas), and fruits.
FATS Fats are the fuel for the body. If they are not used, they are stored by the body for future use. Fats are used for heat and energy; there are 9 calories in one gram of fat. Fats are found in oils, dairy products, butter or margarine, and nuts.
PROTEINS Proteins are the building blocks for your body. Proteins are used as energy and to rebuild and repair the body; there are 4 calories in one gram of protein. Proteins are found in meats, eggs, milk, fish, nuts, and legumes (beans, peas, and lentils).
VITAMINS Vitamins cannot be produced by the body, therefore, need to be consumed in foods. Vitamins are used to regulate body chemistry and function; examples include: vision, growth, immune system, nerves, hair and skin. Vitamins are found in most foods but especially fruits, veggies, milk, and grains.
MINERALS Minerals cannot be produced by the body, therefore, need to be consumed in foods. Minerals are used to regulate body chemistry and functions; examples include: growth, muscles, healthy bones, healing, regulating hormones. Minerals are found in most foods but more frequently in fruits and veggies, meats, and grains.
WATER The most essential of all nutrients. Water is used to move nutrients and waste; maintains body temperature; creates a coating for joints of the body. Water is found to some extent in every food. The best sources of water are liquids, fruits, and veggies.
NON-NUTRIENT BUT STILL IMPORTANT!!! FIBER: a non-nutrient substance found in plant food. Fiber is not digested. Fiber is necessary for digestion and good bodily functions. Fiber is found in fruits, veggies, and grains.