Nutrients for Good Health

Food consists of six groups, all of which are basic necessities essential for good health. These are proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. There are over 40 different nutrients the body needs to perform its functions.

Protein is the keystone of human nutrition. It is essential for every form of life for growth, pregnancy, formation of blood, bone, and every vital tissue. Meat is the greatest source of animal protein for health. Protein provides the animal acid needed to build muscle tissue and to grow our hair.

Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the body for its daily routine activities such as sitting, standing, walking, and so on. Another source of energy for the body is fat. Fat is used when we increase our activity such as when we are exercising. Fats and carbohydrates are stored in the body for later use. It is important that we eat enough food for energy but it is also important that we expend energy to keep our bodies healthy. The body also uses protein for energy.

If your food intake is healthy, you will be getting the vitamins and minerals your body needs to function. Some of the vitamins and minerals the body needs are iron, thiamine, vitamin C, and vitamin D. You can also take supplements if you do not feel you are getting the right amount for your body through your eating.

Water is essential to the body. Water delivers the nutrients to the various parts of the body. Water hydrates the body, especially the mouth. We need saliva to keep our mouth moist and free of bacteria. Water needs to be replenished throughout the day. We lose water through bodily functions and it is important to replace it. Also, if you are on a weight loss diet, water can make you feel full.

I take a multi-vitamin every day. I had weight loss surgery and it is one of the requirements imposed for the change I made in my life. I have a chart of the amount of nutrients I should ingest each day to keep my body functioning properly. I also use a protein supplement. After the weight loss surgery, my hair started to fall out. It did grow back as my protein intake stabilized.

Be sure to check with your doctor about your nutrition needs before adding supplements. Eat a diet filled with nutrients for your good health.