Nutrients

CarbohydratesFunction: Provide ENERGY for the bodyStructure: Carbohydrates are sugars and starches Found in : rice, beans, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, pasta, breads, grains

Proteins• Function: Provide the building materials your body needs to grow and repair itself• Structure: Proteins are made from many amino acids • Found in: Legumes, nuts, whole grains, fish, meat, eggs, milk, cheese

Fats• Functions:• ENERGY source for the body (more than carbs and proteins)• Help protect and cushion vital organs as well as joints • Insulate the body

• Structure: • Fats belong to a group of organic compounds called lipids

which are substances that do not dissolve in water.• Fatty acids and lipids are the building blocks of fats.

• Found in : beef fat, egg yolks, dairy products, canola, safflower, and peanut oils

Fiber• Function – plant material that cannot be

broken down by the digestive tract – so it “keeps things moving along” in the digestive system.

• Structure – usually high in cellulose, whole grains, and pectin

• Found in – raisins, celery, bran, whole grain foods, fruits like apples, prunes.

How many servings should I eat based on the Food Pyramid?

• Fats, sweets and oils: less than 10% of what you eat daily

• Milk, Yogurt and Cheese Group: 2-3 Servings• Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dry Beans, Eggs and Nuts

Group: 2-3 Servings• Vegetable Group: 3-5 Servings• Fruit Group: 2-4 Servings• Bread, Cereal, Rice, and Pasta Group: 6-11 Servings