WHY WE EATEssential Nutrient Notes

REASONS WHY WE EAT. . . A. Physical well being B. Energy C. Body functions D. Hunger E. Growth of cells and tissues

NUTRIENTS There are nutrients

Each nutrient plays a specific role in the body. Together they supply energy, provide materials for growth and maintenance and control body functions.

Nutrients that do similar things are grouped together. The six classes of nutrients are:

CARBOHYDRATES

• Simple (sugar)• Complex (starch)

CARBOHYDRATES 4 calories per gram Provides energy “GO” Half of your grains should be whole

grains

Fats

9 calories per gram

Concentrated “GO”

Cut back on trans fats and saturated fats

Animal fats contain a fat like substance called Cholesterol

Fats

Solid fatsSaturated

Liquid oilsUnsaturated (poly, mono)

•Trans fats

Protein

4 calories per gram Provides the “grow” Builds and repairs muscle tissues

Protein 4 calories per gramComplete

All 9 essential amino acids

Incomplete

lacking 1 or more amino acids

Water-the Most Essential Nutrient

Drink 8 cups of water a day!!!

Vitamins

B’s C A D E K Folate, etc., etc. . . .

Vitamins Provide the “glow”Provide no calories Are in every food group.

Minerals Provide the “Glow” Provide no calories

Guides for good eating Since 1916 the U.S. has used different

guides for good eating. They have included:

Recommended Daily Allowances The Basic Four The Food Guide Pyramid My Pyramid and now My Plate

1942 – 1956 The Basic Seven

1956-1992Basic Four

1992 - 2005 food guide

2005-2010

2010-

Effects of our food choices

There is no one perfect food. We need to eat a variety.

Food effects:How we look, feel, act and grow.

It affects abilities

How we function mentally, socially, physically and emotionally

Effects of a poor diet Heart disease High blood pressure Obesity Some cancers

Foods are grouped by the nutrients they are highest in.Match the nutrients with the food groups on MyPlate

Carbohydrates Fats Proteins Vitamins Minerals