1. HEALTHY EATING
NUTRIENTS

2. MACRONUTRIENTS Definition Macro means ‘big’ – big nutrients
They provide our bodies with energy for growth and activity.
They are used to build and repair tissues, regulate body processes and are converted to and used as energy.
Humans consume food to obtain macronutrients
Three types: carbohydrates, proteins and fats

3. CARBOHYDRATES

4. WHAT IS A Carbohydrate? Starches and sugars are carbohydrates
They are the main source of the body’s energy
They account for just over half of the calorie intake for most people: 60% daily
Starches are rich sources of carbohydrates: rice and potatoes for example
Sugars provide the body with energy in the form of calories, but with no nutrients – you will hear sugar referred to as an ‘empty calorie’ food

5. protein

6. What is a protein? Are part of every cell in the body
The body is always assembling, breaking down and using protein for various functions, such as liver detoxification
Daily protein intake is essential to replace what the body uses – 25% daily
Protein can be found in foods derived from animals (meat and dairy products)
Can also be found in plant foods such as beans, grains, nuts and seeds.

7. fats

8. What is a fat?
Fats and oils (liquid fats) are necessary to the body for good health – 15% daily
They make certain vitamins available for use in the body
They help to cushion vital organs
They help to maintain body temperature
They help to satiate the body, which means they help us to feel full
Fats can come from animal products (meat & dairy), fruits & vegetables, and oils (olive, fish, palm & coconut)

9. micronutrients Definition: Mirco means ‘small’ – small nutrients
Required by the human body in small quantities to help with a range of physiological functions – vision, healing and muscle movement
Come in the form of minerals and vitamins
The body can obtain these vitamins and minerals from a variety of different daily food sources – can you think of any?

10. homework
Use the handout provided to create a Macronutrient Food Diary for one full day before our next class.
In one column list the name of the food and in the other list whether it is a carbohydrate, protein or fat (or maybe more than one?!).
Bring your Macronutrient Food Diary with you to our second class this week and we will discuss your findings as a group.