THE BASIC COMPONENTS OF DIET
The most basic components of diet are called
macronutrients and micronutrients.
Macronutrients are proteins, carbohydrates (and fibre) and fats. Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals.
Protein
Protein is more plentiful in our bodies than any
other substance but water. Protein
comprises half the dry body weight, including most of the muscle mass, skin,
hair, eyes and nails. It is the main structure
and ingredient of our cells, and the enzymes that keep them running. Immunity to disease relies on protein; in
fact, the immune system and its antibodies are largely composed of protein.
The building blocks of protein are amino
acids. Twenty of these are vital for the
body, and some of these are known as essential because they cannot be synthesized
by the human body, and must be supplied by the diet. Without these essential amino acids
constantly entering the body, the rate of new protein formation would slow down
and, in extremes, stop altogether.
Proteins are the basis of all life. Those from meat, fish eggs and cheese are
known as complete proteins, containing the correct proportion of amino
acids. Vegetable proteins are not so
complete but by combining foods such as grains and pulses or nuts, more
complete protein can be created.
Source: Blanc Vite
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