Six Essential Nutrient Groups

Proteins

build and repair cells, fight infection, and make blood strong. amino acids. Sources of proteins: fish, meat, chicken, eggs, milk, nuts.

Carbohydrates: sugars and starches

Carbohydrates provide energy - muscles, nerves, brain. Complex - provide calories and other nutrients. Good sources of fiber, essential for digestion, prevention of some diseases. Simple carbohydrate foods provide calories, but not much else. Sources of Complex Carbohydrates: starches - breads, noodles, grains, cereals, potatoes, vegetables, and some fruits. Sources of Simple Carbohydrates: sugars - table sugar, powdered sugar, brown sugar, honey, corn, and some fruits.

Minerals

Minerals build bones(calcium (Ca)), teeth, blood (Fe), and help the body use energy. Calcium makes up our bones. the iron in red blood cells carries oxygen. Minerals are obtained through a healthy diet.

Fats: (lipids)

Provide energy, 'fatty acids', help w/ digestion. Essential for absorption of vitamins A, D, E, K. Insulation and cushioning for our organs. Sources: corn oil, olive oil, butter, lard

Water

has no calories; water transports other nutrients to cells, carries wastes away, helps w/ digestion. It makes more than half your body's weight. Sources: water; juices and other beverages; soups and many solid foods such as fruits and vegetables. The human body is made up of about 60% water.

Calories

units of energy for the body; source: food

Vitamins

vitamins are needed for growth and health. help w/ body processes. Vitamins A, D, E, B-complex, C. *THE HUMAN BODY CANNOT MAKE OR MANUFACTURE VITAMINS; IT MUST OBTAIN THEM FROM FOODS.*