Nutrients – your body needs them! But, what are nutrients?
The nutrients found in all foods and drinks provide nourishment for the body. This nourishment is in the form of:
- Substances which provide energy
- Building blocks for bone, muscle, organs, hormones and blood
- Substances needed for processes to occur in the body (like digestion)
- Substances that protect the body
Nutrients are drawn from a wide variety of foods and the more varied your diet, the more likely you are to obtain all the nutrients you need.
Energy is not a nutrient but, kilojoules (food energy) are important for providing energy for your daily activities.
Protein, fats and carbohydrates are converted into energy in different quantities. Vitamins and minerals are also essential nutrients for the body, but they are not converted into energy.
Energy is required to fuel body processes (metabolism) and physical activity. If we consume more energy than we use for metabolism and physical activity, the excess is stored as body fat. You need to be sure to balance the energy you consume through foods with the energy you expend during the day. The more active you are the more energy you need and vice versa.
The reference value for an average adult is 8,700 kJ.
Fat
Too much saturated fat can raise blood cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease. You should therefore consume no more than your recommended daily intake.
The reference value for saturated fat for an average adult is 24 grams.
Sugars
Sodium (salt) is needed for good health; however, too much can cause adverse health effects through its function of raising blood pressure. Our diets generally contain far more sodium than we need, due to the level of added salt in some packaged products. It is important for you to be aware of your sodium intake for heart health and you should aim to consume no more than your recommended intake.
The reference value for sodium for an average adult is 2,300 milligrams.
Protein
Carbohydrates are the main source of energy that fuels our body and everything it does, even thinking. Carbohydrates are sugars and starches. They are found in fruit and some vegetables, dairy foods and grain-based foods like bread, breakfast cereals, rice and pasta. Eat some grain-based foods that are wholegrain or high in fibre every day, to boost your fibre intake.
The reference value for carbohydrates (both complex and simple) for an average adult is 310 grams.