Welcome to the 3rd essential for optimum health: FOOD AND NUTRITION. I will probably write a series of articles on food and nutrition because that is one of my main passions. In today’s article we will explore the connection between food and nutrition. They are NOT the same. You can fill your belly with food and get practically no nutrition in the process. You will get energy but not nutrients.
I hope you are wondering about the difference. The category of food includes everything, both of a plant origin and/or animal origin that we eat. It’s that simple!! Now, nutrition is a different story altogether. Contained in all foods are an amazing number of nutrients. All foods contain either protein, carbohydrates or fat, usually in a combination.
Very few foods only have one, except maybe oils, honey and sugar. Vitamins, minerals, and enzymes are the primary nutrients the body needs. There are other very important nutrients called phytonutrients. For our purposes we’ll stick with the basics: protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes.
Proteins are necessary for growth and repair of all parts of the body. Carbohydrates are important for providing energy. Fats are important for producing chemicals and structures in the body as well as carrying vitamins.
Vitamins serve as a catalyst for the body to use other nutrients and perform certain functions. Minerals, such as calcium are important for strong teeth and bones. Enzymes promote and support the millions of chemical reactions that happen in the body to preserve life by creating good health.
In a balanced diet, the foods work together to nourish the body. For example, vitamin D helps the bones absorb the mineral calcium which is found in milk. The nutrients in apples help the body to absorb the vitamin B found in pork.
Oils, such as that in avocados, carry vitamin E also found in the avocado. I like that many foods have the right combinations of nutrients. Nature really does a great job at providing everything we need for optimum health.
The next article will discuss suggestions about creating a balanced diet. Please submit your questions and comments.
To your Optimum Health
Joanna
Umuseke Volunteer
