Module+1-+Food,+Nutrition,+and+Health


 * The Concept of Health**

Health is the state of well-being in body and mind; freedom from disease and a sound mind. Three main factors that contribute to good health and well-being are diet, exercise and recreational activities. The basic health needs are physical (i.e. exercise), intellectual (i.e. reading), emotional (i.e. counseling), and social needs (recreational activities).


 * Functions of Food and the Food Groups**

The body uses food to perform one or more of four main functions: to supply energy, for growth and repair, for regulation, and for protection.

//Energy//

Food Supplies the fuel or energy needed to perform the many tasks of everyday living. We need energy to think, breathe, walk, sit, speak, and even sleep. We get energy from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is important that we eat enough food to supply all our needs. If we don't, we will feel tired and listless. Having no energy can be compared to a car that has run out of gas. On the other hand, if we eat more energy food than our body needs, this energy will be stored in the body as fat. Too much stored energy will result in the body becoming overweight or obese.

//Growth and repair// Food provides the materials needed to build, repair and maintain body tissues. Proteins, fats and minerals are the best nutrients for growth. Growing bodies need extra amounts of these nutrients. Every person, whether growing or not, is going through a continual repair process of replacing injured or dead cells. It is food that supplies the nutrients necessary for this process.

//Regulation// Food supplies the substances that help regulate the body's processes. Water, vitamins and minerals help regulate breathing, the nervous system, digestion, blood circulation and the elimination of waste products from the body. They help keep all the systems in the body working properly.

//Protection// Vitamins, minerals and protein keep the body's tissues and organs healthy. Healthy organs are less likely to be attacked by disease.

The CINDI food guide pyramid is a great guide for a healthy diet. Use the food guide pyramid to plan healthy meals. media type="youtube" key="D6WUzEbzdiA" height="344" width="425"
 * The Food Guide Pyramid**