There is more to a balanced diet than calorie balance, too often people do not look beyond calories when adjusting their diets. Nutrient balance is the other key factor in trying to lose weight or improve performance through diet. A nutrient is a substance obtained from food and used in the body to promote growth, maintenance and repair.

The six nutrient classes are:

• Carbohydrate

• Protein

• Fat

• Vitamins

• Minerals

• Water

Nutrients are essential to life, without continual replenishment you would soon be in trouble! In order for your body to function optimally it must receive adequate amounts of each type of nutrient.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates form glucose when digested. Glucose is then released into your blood and effects blood sugar levels. Glucose is taken to body cells via your blood and it is then either converted to energy or stored as fat depending on needs.

• Complex – Main source of energy for hard work. Good sources are high in nutrients and fibre while being low in calories.

• Simple – Sugars for quick energy.

• Fibre – Both soluble and insoluble. Aids in normal gut and bowel function. Can also help with blood pressure, cholesterol levels and hunger.

Protein

Protein is formed from Amino Acids, some of which must be obtained through diet. Protein is an essential component of the body as it is used in every process body cells perform.

• Growth.

• Repairs muscle tissue.

• Forms anti-bodies in the immune system helping prevent sickness and disease.

Protein in the diet is slow digesting and can help keep us feeling full and help with balancing blood sugar levels.  

Fats

Fat is made up of fatty acids, some of which are essential nutrients. Certain types of fat must be consumed in the diet, as the body requires them, yet cannot make them.

• Energy storehouse.

• Insulates against the cold.

• Aids in absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E & K.

• Protects, cushions and supports vital organs.

• Gives the body cosmetic appeal, helps with healthy skin and hair.

• Helps to remove and store toxins from the blood.

Vitamins

There are 13 different vitamins each with its own role to play in the body. Vitamins are organic compounds which serve as helpers because they make possible the digestion, absorption and metabolism of other nutrients. They are used as:

• Hormones

• Antioxidants

• Co-enzymes

Minerals

Minerals are chemical elements required by the body; these are required either in large

amounts (Macro-minerals) or small amounts (Trace minerals).

• Play a major role in the body’s structure.

• Provide strength in bones.

• Help with fluid balance.

• Vitality.

• Resistance to infection.

Water

Water is indispensable and abundant. Water is by far the most essential nutrient and is

required frequently for good health. Unfortunately thirst is not an accurate indication to know how much fluid is required. By the time you are thirsty, fluid is already low!

• Carries other nutrients to cells.

• Aids digestion and metabolism.

• Decreases bloating and fluid retention.

• Promotes good skin tone.

• Curbs the appetite.

• Detoxifying agent as it helps remove toxins.