Understanding Nutrients
Proteins
Proteins are divided into 2 groups: Plant-based and animal-based proteins.
Foods that contain animal-based proteins include:
Poultry, eggs, dairy and fish
Foods that contain plant-based proteins include:
Lentils, tofu, chickpeas, and foods with nutritional yeast.
Why are proteins important?
Proteins are broken down into amino acids
9/20 of those amino acids have to be consumed through food.
Proteins are responsible for building and repairing body tissue.
Fats
What kind of fats should be consumed more often?
Omega-3 is a good fat, it should be consumed often.
Foods high in omega-3 include fish, seafood, plant oils and walnuts
What kind of fats should be consumed less often?
Fatty meats and dairy should be consumed in small portions, and less often.
What does fat do for your body?
Fat insulates and prevents the body from shock
Fat increases the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (D, E, A, K)
Carbs
Carbs are divided into 2 groups: Simple and complex
Complex carbs are the most healthy for a person
Complex carbs are found in:
Buckwheat, brown rice, and whole grain products.
Simple carbs are found in:
White bread, fruit, and dairy products
Why are carbs important?
Carbs help the nervous system, muscular system
and kidneys
Carbs are the body's MAIN source of energy
Minerals
What foods are rich in minerals?
Foods rich in minerals include nuts and seeds, eggs, shellfish, avocados, and organ meats
Why does your body need minerals?
Your body needs minerals to absorb certain vitamins.
Minerals help maintain proper organ, heart, and respiratory system functions
Vitimins
Sources of vitamins
Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, peppers, and strawberries
Vitamin D is generated by your skin, when it comes in contact with the sun
Good sources of vitamin B include broccoli, spinach, and asparagus
What do vitamins do?
Vitamin B helps prevent birth defects and blood diseases
Vitamins need to be consumed to maintain body function.
Some vitamins help you fight off infections, and other help you maintain your basic body health
Water
Sources of water
Foods high in water include, watermelon, cucumber, celery, lettuce, and cantaloupe
However, the main source of water is... Water...
Why is water important?
Water is the MOST IMPORTANT nutrient
Water is required for every single main body function
