Introduction to Nutrition Ms. Creel

What is Nutrition ? The process by which the

body takes in and uses food

The process of nourishing or being nourished, especially the process by which a living organism assimilates food and uses it for growth and for replacement of tissues

The study of food intake and food composition and its effects on the human body

Eating Habits What are some foods you eat on a regular

basis? Why?

Eating Habits: why and how people eat, which foods they eat, and with whom they eat

Hunger vs. Appetite› Hunger: a natural physical drive that protects you from

starvation› Appetite: a desire, rather than a need, to eat

Influences

Food choices are often influenced by emotions and environments: family, friends, peers

How do emotions influence your eating habits?

We use food to satisfy emotional needs leading to poor eating habits boredom, stress, depression, frustration, accomplishment

Emotions may also cause us to skip meals and have poor eating habits depression, sadness, anxiety, frustration

Environmental Influences

Family, friends, peers› Culture› Adult planned

meals› Other peoples

choices and opinions (persuasion)

Convenience, cost, advertising› Quick preparation

for a busy lifestyle› Inexpensive vs.

expensive› Location =

convenience

How does the environment influence what you eat?

Importance of Nutrition Why is nutrition important in your life? Provides necessary nutrients for growth

and development Gives you energy Helps you to stay mentally alert and

focused “Look good, feel good, play good!!!”

Also important because…

Prevents unhealthful weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes

Reduces risk of many life threatening conditions: › Heart disease › Stroke › Certain cancers› Osteoporosis: loss of bone density over

time

What is a Nutrient? A chemical substance in food that helps

maintain the body

Some provide energy

All help build cells and tissues, and regulate bodily processes such as breathing

No single food supplies all the nutrients the body needs to function

The Six Essential Nutrients

Carbohydrates Proteins

FatsVitaminsMinerals

Water