Essential nutrients
Essential nutrients are compounds that the body can’t make or can’t make in sufficient quantity. According to the World Health Organization, these nutrients must come from food, and they are vital for disease prevention, growth, and good health.
While there are many essential nutrients, they can be broken up into two categories: macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients are eaten in large amounts and include the building blocks of your diet by providing the body with energy: protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients, and small doses go a long way. There are six main groups of essential micronutrients and macronutrients.
1. Protein Protein is having its moment, and not just in the workout community. But all of the hype is for a good
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Unsaturated fats are important for your body as they provide essential fatty acids your body can’t make. You can find these healthy fats in nuts, seeds, fish, and vegetable oils (like olive, sunflower, and canola). Avoid trans fats and limit your intake of saturated fats like butter, cheese, red meat, and ice cream. The easiest way to remember is to eat fats that are liquid at room temperature and to avoid any that is solid at room temperature.
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The body needs these micronutrients to support its functions. There are 13 essential vitamins that the body needs to function properly, including vitamin A, C, B6, and D. Each vitamin plays an important role in the body, and not getting enough of them can cause health problems and disease. Many Americans do not get enough of many essential vitamins. Vitamins are essential for healthy vision, skin, and bones. They may lower the risk of lung and prostate cancer, and they are powerful antioxidants. Vitamins like vitamin C boost the immune system and help the body