Nutrition

Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy.  When carbohydrates are broken down by the body, glucose is formed, which is essential to fuel, build, and repair the body.  There are complex carbohydrates and simple carbohydrates, also known as sugar.  Each has a vastly different effect on the body.  Complex carbohydrates consist of three or more sugars and are fiber-rich.  They may als…Read More

Protein is an essential nutrient, made up of amino acids, which helps form the structural components of body tissue, such as muscle, and also is used in many biological processes, such as growth and brain function.  Our bodies do not make sufficient amounts of amino acids, which are essential for good health.  Therefore, we must get them through our diet.  Although there is much debate about th…Read More

Dietary fats are classified as monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated, based on the structure of their fatty acids.  Monounsaturated fats from things such as avocado, peanut, flax, and olive, are good sources of fat for the body.  Like everything else, however, they need to be consumed in moderation.  Polyunsaturated fats can be obtained in foods such as nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils…Read More

Vitamins such as A, B (there are several), C, D and E, and minerals, like calcium, iron and sodium, are needed by the body to trigger chemical reactions necessary to maintain good health.  Vitamins enhance the body’s use of carbohydrates, proteins and fats and are critical in the formation of blood cells, hormones, nervous system chemicals known as neurotransmitters, and DNA.  Minerals are sma…Read More

Water is quite possibly the single most important component in maintaining good health throughout your life.  Most people don’t realize that the body is predominantly made up of water, with a healthy woman being between 50-60% water, and a healthy man being between 60 -70%.  Water is responsible for cellular life, chemical and metabolic reactions, transporting nutrients to cells, body temperat…Read More

The quality and quantity of the food you consume are the two things you must consider if you want to eat with the goal of wellness in mind.  In today’s society, where processed and fast foods are the norm, it is sometimes difficult to maintain quality food choices.  Add to that super-sized portions and it becomes nearly impossible to control caloric intake.  Here are some easy steps for healt…Read More

Many people struggle with reading food labels. The most successful way to read labels for better health is to not eat foods that come with a label! Although that isn’t realistic in today’s society, it makes an important point. Eat more foods that don’t come in a package, and you will be healthier. That said, you need to know how to read labels. The first thing you need to look at with any la…Read More