NutritionNutrition

• Nutrition is eating foods the body needs to grow, develop, and work properly.

Factors that influence what we eat:

• Family• Convenience• Habit• Heritage or

tradition• Availability

• Personal preference

• Economy• Nutritional value• Advertising• Social pressure

Diet• The food or

drink we regularly choose to consume

Nutrients• Nutrients are a group

of substances found in the food we eat.

• They are needed by the body to grow, operate, and to carry on life processes.

The Six Essential Nutrients

Carbohydrates• The body’s main energy source.

–Complex

–Simple

Proteins• Needed to build, repair, and

maintain body cells and tissues

Fats• Insulates the

body• Provides

stored energy• Cushions body

organs

Vitamins

• Controls body functions

• Helps immune system

• Helps the body to grow

Minerals• Needed for

healthy bones, teeth, and blood

Water• The most common nutrient• 60% of your body is water• Carries nutrients through the body• Helps digestion• Keeps the body from overheating• Lubricates the body joints• Removes waste from the body

The Food Guide Pyramid

• Divides foods into 6 groups based on their nutrient content

–Breads and Grains

–Meats and Beans–Vegetables

–Fruits

–Milk and dairy

–Extras

The 7 Dietary Guidelines

• Eat a variety of foods

• Balance the food you eat with physical activity: maintain or improve your weight

The 7 Dietary Guidelines

• Choose a diet low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol

The 7 Dietary Guidelines

• Choose a diet moderate in sugars

• Choose a diet moderate in salt and sodium

• Adolescents should not drink alcoholic beverages

Nutrition Labels

• Reading nutrition labels helps you to choose more healthful foods.

• Contain information about what nutrients are supplied by a food

Remember:•You are what you eat.