NUTRITION Nutrition refers to the food intake , which is the key to any level of physical conditioning.
It involves the nutrients that get into the body through the regular three meals and snacks.
NUTRIENTS Nutrients refers to the substance that provides structural or functional components or energy to the body.
ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS Nutrients refers to the substance that must be obtained from the diet because the body cannot make it in sufficient quantity to meet its needs.
THE FOOD GROUPS
CARBOHYDRATES These are the energy giving foods . The main components of these foods is starch, which is turned into sugar needed to produce energy.
Example: Rice Whole grain Flour
Potatoes Cereals Seeds
PROTEIN-RICH FOODS These are the building blocks of the body as they build and repair body tissues .
Example: Meat Fish Poultry
Beans Milk Eggs
FAT-RICH FOODS Fats are needed for body lubrication and insulation .
They protect the internal organs and provide essential fatty acids, but they are relatively inefficient in the production of energy.
To keep fats to a minimum, avoid fried foods, mayonnaise, butter, cheese, rich desserts and fatty sausages.
Example: Vegetable fats (are nutritionally better than animal fats)
VITAMIN AND MINERAL-RICH FOODS These are the body regulator of metabolic processes.
Example: Green leafy and yellow vegetables and fruits