One of the most important subjects to master in your life is nutrition. Once you understand how your body takes in food, breaks it down and distributes it throughout your body, you will be able to make healthier food choices throughout your life. You will also be better able to express to your doctor any problems you may encounter,. .
Carbohydrates: Introduction
one of the three primary classes of macronutrients that make up the food we eat. There have been many changes to the types of carbohydrates available. In this century there has been a dramatic shift away from the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables and complex carbohydrates toward an increase in the consumption of refined carbohydrates. These dietary shifts are implicated in a number of diseases including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and tooth decay.
Fats: Introduction
Mmm…fats! They make food taste delicious. But what is their value in human nutrition? How much do you need each day? How much is too much? What makes up a good fat or a bad fat? How have modern processing and fast foods changed the fats?
Proteins: Introduction
Protein is another crucial macronutrient. An essential part of human nutrition, they are second only to water in the body’s composition. Protein makes up about 20 percent of our body weight, and is the primary component of muscles, hair, nails, skin, eyes, and the heart and brain. Composed of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and nitrogen, protein is made of smaller building blocks called amino acids.
Vitamins: Introduction
This section focuses on one of two micronutrient categories: vitamins. Vitamins are essential to human nutrition. They are organic (contain carbon), and are found in small amounts in plant and animal sources. With the exception of a few B vitamins and an occasional biochemical conversion from a precursor, we must get them by eating the plants and animals that contain them.
Minerals: Introduction
Now we get down to the foundational elements that our entire nutritional matrix is built upon. The minerals! Minerals are basic constituents of all matter. Minerals exist as inorganic forms in the earth, and they are a part of all living tissues. In fact, every living cell depends on minerals. When plant or animal remains burn or decompose, it is minerals that are left as the final ash.
Like vitamins, they are coenzymes enabling the body to create energy, growth and healing. Minerals are inorganic molecules that are found on the periodic table and, generally, do not break down into smaller substances. Let’s explore minerals in nutrition!
Fluids And Hydration: Introduction
The water of life:
After air, water is the most important nutrient to the human body. A person can go without food for many weeks, but only a few days without water. Fluids provide hydrogen, oxygen and electrolytes (minerals). In this section we will examine the importance of fluids and the concept and science of hydration. We will also consider modern sources of water, quality issues and the technology of sports hydration drinks.