Nutrients – substances such as proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fiber which are found in foods needed for healthy living. There are two types, macronutrients, which the body needs in large amounts, and micronutrients, which the body needs in small amounts. Proteins make the cells, while carbohydrates give energy. Vitamins regulate chemical processes, converting food into energy and tissues. Minerals help strengthen different body parts, such as the bones and teeth. Fiber ensures a healthy digestive system.
RDA – the abbreviation for Recommended Daily Allowance (or Amounts), these are the figures issued by health care and/or nutrition authorities setting the average quantities of essential nutrients people needs, usually on a daily basis.
Calories – the basic units in which the energy value of food as well as the energy needs of the body are measured. Energy needs vary according to age and sex. A male teenager, for instance, would need around 3,000 calories a day.
Metabolism – the chemical and physical changes within the body that keep it alive and functioning. It consist of the number of calories burned at any given time to either release or store energy. An active person’s metabolism is higher compared to that of an idle person.
Amino Acids – the basic building blocks and proteins. There are eight essential amino acids that cannot be provided by the body but only by diet. They make specific forms of protein required by different cells and tissues.
Enzymes – proteins that helps break down food into energy units for different body parts. A failure in the enzyme process can cause serious disorders.
Cholesterol – a substance found in the bloodstream and in the body’s cells, use to form cell membranes, some hormones and other functions.
Fat – chemical compound containing one or more fatty acids. Along with proteins and carbohydrates, fat is one of the three main components of food, and the principal form in which is stored in the body.