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Nutrients
Proteins
Carbohydrates
Fats
Cholesterol
Mineral Elements
Vitamins
Fiber
Water
Weight Control
Mineral Elements
For normal growth and function, the body requires
many minerals. Calcium and iron are particularly important during
the growing years. Sufficient amounts of calcium ensure that the
bones will grow properly. Milk and dairy products are the richest
sources of calcium. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium; that is
the reason why vitamin D is added to milk. Iron is an important part
of the red blood cells. Without enough iron, a person will be weak
and anemic. Lean cuts of meat, poultry, fish, and enriched cereals
are all good sources of iron.
Sodium (common table salt) helps the body retain
water. In excess, salt can lead to high blood pressure and can
increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Of our dietary sodium,
75 percent comes from the processing and/or manufacturing of food,
10 percent represents the natural sodium content of food, and 15
percent is added during cooking or at the table. Many processed
foods -- foods that are bought already prepared -- are high in salt.
You can cut way down on the amount of salt you eat just by cooking
your own food instead of relying on canned or frozen food, and by
using herbs and spices, rather than table salt, for flavoring. |
