Did you know there are 5 basic types of nutrients that the body needs? These are carbohydrates, proteins, fats (including oil), vitamins and minerals. Water is also important for hydration.
All are equally important to our well-being, although they are needed in varying quantities, from about 250g of carbohydrates a day to less than two micrograms of vitamin B12.
Carbohydrate, fat and protein are usually called macro-nutrients and the vitamins and minerals are usually called micro-nutrients.
Most foods contain a mixture of nutrients (there are a few exceptions, like pure salt or sugar) but it is easier to classify them by the main nutrient they provide. Still, it is worth remembering that everything you eat provides a whole range of essential nutrients.
Meat supplies protein, fat, some B vitamins and minerals (mostly iron, zinc, potassium and phosphorous). Fish, in addition to the above, supplies vitamins A, D, and E, and the mineral iodine.
Friday, September 12, 2008
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