6 Essential Nutrients

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The 6 essential nutrients are protein fat carbohydrate vitamins minerals and water. Proteins used to build cells in the body, act as hormones and enzymes. “The Institute of Medicine recommends 8 grams of protein for every 20 pounds of body weight”, as stated in www.hsph.harvard.edu. Fat is a source of energy in our body. It also protects our organs and carries vitamins (fat-soluble A, D, K, E). “Essential fatty acids can’t be made by the body, so they need to be consumed in the diet? They include omega-6 (linoleic acid — LA) and omega 3 fatty acids (Alpha-linolenic acid — ALA) found in breast milk, formula, vegetable oils and nuts. Although longer chained omega 3s (DHA and EPA) found in fish can be made from ALA in the body, experts believe this is limited,” …show more content…

Beginning at the age of 1 year, and continuing throughout their teens, children need to consume 130 grams of total carbohydrates daily. “The majority of their carbs should come from whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans. In addition to being sources of carbohydrates, these foods provide the nutrients that support children’s growth and development”, as stated in healthyeating.sfgate.com. Vitamins and minerals are the boost for our immune system. They also help our body work properly. People could get vitamins and minerals through the food that they eat, and through the sun. Water defined as one of the most essential nutrient that our body needs because approximately 60% of our body made contains water. The recommended fluid intake by betterhealth.vic.gov.au are: ‘infants 0–6 months – 0.7 l (from breastmilk or formula), infants 7–12 months – 0.9 l (from breastmilk, formula and other foods and drinks), children 1–3 years – 1.0 l (about 4 cups), children 4–8 years – 1.2 l (about 5 cups), girls 9–13 years – 1.4 l (about 5-6 cups), boys 9–13 years – 1.6 l (about 6 cups), girls 14–18 years – 1.6 l (about 6 cups), boys 14–18 years – 1.9 l (about 7-8

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