Understanding the Six Essential Nutrients

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Nutrients Basics Nutrients are chemical substances in foods that the body uses for a variety of functions that support growth, tissue maintenance and repair, and going health. There are 6 categories of nutrients they are water, carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Water The human body consists of 65 percent of water. The water carries nutrients to the cells, lubricates joints, regulates body temperature, dissolves vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other nutrients. The sources of water are tap and bottled water, fruit juice, milk and vegetable juice. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram. This nutrient is used by the body mainly as a source of readily available energy. They consist of simple carbohydrates and …show more content…

The carbohydrates should contribute 45-65 percent of total calories intake. Fiber Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body can’t digest. High fiber diets reduce the rate of glucose absorption, may reduce the risk of developing some diseases like heart disease, diabetes and obesity, and certain types of cancer. It is recommended that adult female consume between 21 and 25 grams, and males 30- 38 grams daily. Protein Protein provides four calories per grams. Proteins are made up of chemical compounds called amino acids. Amino acids are used to build and maintain protein- based components of the body such as bone, enzyme, muscle and red blood cells. Food source of protein are meat, fish, eggs, poultry, dairy products, legumes and nuts. Fats Fat is the most concentrated form of food energy, providing nine calories per gram. Fats provide substances needed for growth and healthy skin. This nutrient is required to carry “fat-soluble” vitamins throughout the body, and they are needed for cholesterol and sex- hormone synthesis. Fats come in two types: Saturated Fat and unsaturated. The saturated fats are usually solid at room temperature. Animal products such as butter, meats and cheese and tropical oils (coconut and palm) are sources of saturated fats. Unsaturated Fats are liquid at room temperature. Vegetable oils, seeds, and nuts are rich source of …show more content…

It is the precursor for the biosynthesis of steroid hormones and bile acid. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for the heart disease and stroke. Some sources of dietary cholesterol are egg yolks, meat, and butter. The recommended intake of fats should be within the range of 20 to 35 percent of total calories. Vitamins Vitamins are organics components in food that are needed in small amount for growth and for maintaining good health. Vitamins are separated into two types: fat Soluble and water soluble vitamins. The vitamin C and B- complex vitamins are soluble in water, on the other hands vitamins A, D, E and K are fat soluble. Vitamins do not provide energy. Vitamin A Vitamin A (Beta Carotene) promotes growth and repair of body tissue, reduces susceptibility to infections, aids in night vision, and plays a role in developing strong bones and teeth. Vitamin A is found in dark green leafy vegetables, deep yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, liver, milk, cheese, and eggs. Vitamin

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