The Digestive System Day One NUTRIENTS Nutrients The

The Digestive System Day One: NUTRIENTS

Nutrients • The usable portion of food. • 6 main nutrients • Source of energy

SPEAKING OF ENERGY!

Calorie • This is the unit that we use to measure the amount of energy that can be obtained from nutrients (FOOD).

• The number of calories a person needs depends on age, body build, occupation and size

The 6 Main Nutrients: • Proteins –a nutrient that builds and repairs body parts. –made of amino acids. –found in red meat, fish, chicken, eggs and dairy products

Carbohydrates • Energy-rich nutrients found in vegetables, fruits, cereals, breads • Starch/sugar (sugars make up starch). • Sugars can be used by the body almost immediately.

FATS • Nutrients that supply the body with energy (twice the amount of energy as carbohydrates; twice as many calories as carbohydrates). • Supports and cushions vital organs from injury (remember that fats are connective tissue).

• Found in nuts, butter, bacon grease and oils.

Vitamins • Help regulate the growth and normal functioning of the body. • Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in fat tissue. • Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in fat tissue.

Minerals • Help keep the body functioning normally.

Water • Carries nutrients and other substances in the bloodstream. • Helps to regulate body temperature. • 50% to 60% of the human body is made up of water.

THE END