Proper Fuel

Overview of The Different Nutrients Our Bodies Need:

With warmer weather here and more in-season produce available, let's recap how we can fuel ourselves properly.

Your body needs a variety of nutrients to function properly. These nutrients can be divided into two main categories: macronutrients and micronutrients.

Macronutrients

Macronutrients are nutrients that your body needs in large amounts. They provide your body with energy and help to build and repair tissues. The three main macronutrients are:

1.Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are your body's main source of energy. They are found in foods such as bread, pasta, rice, fruits, and vegetables.

2. Proteins

Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues. They are found in foods such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, and nuts.

3. Fats

Fats are essential for storing energy, protecting organs, and producing hormones. They are found in foods such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, nuts, and seeds.

Micronutrients

Micronutrients are nutrients that your body needs in small amounts. They are essential for many bodily functions, including growth, development, and immunity. The micronutrients include:

1. Vitamins

Vitamins are organic substances that your body needs to function properly. There are 13 essential vitamins that your body cannot produce on its own. These vitamins are divided into two groups: fat-soluble vitamins and water-soluble vitamins.

• Fat-soluble vitamins

Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in your body's fat tissues. They include vitamins A, D, E, and K.

• Water-soluble vitamins

Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in your body and must be consumed regularly. They include vitamins C and the B vitamins.

2. Minerals

Minerals are inorganic substances that your body needs to function properly. There are 16 essential minerals that your body cannot produce on its own. These minerals include calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, and iodine.

How to Get Nutrients from Food

The best way to get the nutrients your body needs is to eat a variety of healthy foods. A healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products.

You can also get some nutrients from dietary supplements. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, as they can interact with certain medications. Even if they are natural that does not mean they have no adverse side effects!