Nutrients

Carbohydrates Function: Provide ENERGY for the body Structure: Carbohydrates are sugars and starches Found in : rice, beans, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, pasta, breads, grains

Proteins Function: Provide the building materials your body needs to grow and repair itself Structure: Proteins are made from many amino acids Found in: Legumes, nuts, whole grains, fish, meat, eggs, milk, cheese

Fats Functions: ENERGY source for the body (more than carbs and proteins) Help protect and cushion vital organs as well as joints Insulate the body Structure: Fats belong to a group of organic compounds called lipids which are substances that do not dissolve in water. Fatty acids and lipids are the building blocks of fats. Found in : beef fat, egg yolks, dairy products, canola, safflower, and peanut oils

Fiber Function – plant material that cannot be broken down by the digestive tract – so it “keeps things moving along” in the digestive system. Structure – usually high in cellulose, whole grains, and pectin Found in – raisins, celery, bran, whole grain foods, fruits like apples, prunes.

How many servings should I eat based on the Food Pyramid? Fats, sweets and oils: less than 10% of what you eat daily Milk, Yogurt and Cheese Group: 2-3 Servings Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dry Beans, Eggs and Nuts Group: 2-3 Servings Vegetable Group: 3-5 Servings Fruit Group: 2-4 Servings Bread, Cereal, Rice, and Pasta Group: 6-11 Servings