ALL ABOUT DIET

WATER

60-70% of our body weight consists of water. Water loss as much as 10% may result to illness and 20% water loss can lead to death. Water is very essential in our life, it ranks next to oxygen. 8 or more glasses of water should be added in your daily diet, we have to drink more water when we exercise and when the weather is hot.

CARBOHYDRATES

Carbohydrates are the source of energy. The amount of intake of carbohydrates is based on the energy demands of the body. For example, a secretary needs less carbohydrate than to a construction worker or an athlete (blue collar workers needs less carbohydrates than those whose jobs are yellow collar). Carbohydrate intake should be control in people with diabetes because it is converted to glucose or sugar

PROTEIN

Protein is important and is recognized as a vital part of living tissues because it regenerates and repairs cells. It also helps in the production of new cells. People who have wounds, growing children and people who are body builders are advice to have a high protein diet.

FATS

34% of our body energy came from fats. They are more concentrated than carbohydrate and takes longer time to be metabolized, so fats should be taken in small amounts especially in people who are hypertensive.

VITAMINS AND MINERALS

Daily intake of fruits and vegetables is as well important. They are full of vitamins, minerals and fibers. Vitamins and minerals boost the immune system and aids in absorption of other nutrients. Fiber cleanses the body and aids in digestion. Fruit intakes of diabetic people should also be controlled because they also contain glucose.

Taking iron supplement when a woman is menstruating or pregnant prevents iron deficiency anemia or IDA. Eating foods rich in calcium can prevent osteoporosis and other bone disease. It also helps in bone and teeth formation.