November 19, 2008
Health Guide on Essential Nutrients
A health guide on essential nutrients and their natural sources is needed for the healthy growth of body and mind. Protein, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and fats are the essential nutrients that our body requires for good health. They strengthen our immune system, help fight against diseases and keep us healthy, fit and strong.
Carbohydrates provides heat and energy to the body. The major sources of carbohydrates are cereals, tubers, roots, pulses and milk. One should prefer the use of natural carbohydrates in their natural forms in place of processed carbohydrates. Processing removes the fibers and roughage from the food that results in insufficient elimination of wastes. Toxic substances consequently accumulate in the blood. De-branned flour, polished rice, white flour, refined sugars, canned and bottled fruit juices, tomato ketchup, jams, jellies, bread, chocolates, cakes, biscuits, and sweets are examples of such processed foods.
Protein are important for the growth, maintenance and regeneration of our body. The main sources of proteins are pulses, milk, eggs and meat. Many nutritionists believe that animal proteins are superior and complete food proteins compared to vegetable proteins. This is probably the reason why vegetarians are advised to drink plenty of milk so that they can get sufficient amounts of complete food proteins and their body can function at its best. On the other hand, an excess of proteins may result in many diseases because ingestion of excessive amounts of proteins results in the formation of uric acid which is harmful to health.
Vitamins and minerals perform various important functions in the body. Vitamins are needed for the proper digestion and absorption of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, and the development of the ability of the body to protect itself against diseases. Minerals are needed for the formation and functioning of the cells. These vital substances are necessary for the maintenance of health.
Fats, like carbohydrates, perform the function of supplying heat and energy to the body. The main sources of fats for vegetarians are butter and oils. There are two types of fats-saturated and unsaturated. Prolonged used of saturated fats causes constriction and hardening of arteries, which may result in hypertension, heart attack and other related ailments. It is therefore necessary to minimize the intake of saturated fats and replacing them by unsaturated fats.
Knowing the basic essential nutrients needed by our body and where to get them is the most important health guide that we should adhere to. By eating only healthy foods that are rich in vitamins and nutrients, we do not only ensure that we eat a balanced meal but we also take the crucial step to a healthy lifestyle.
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