There Are Many Elements in food. Proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber are the most important, but equally necessary is the fine-tuning provided by vitamins and Minerals. Whole foods -foods that are unrefined and unprocessed- supply nutrients in their natural state, and are therefore likely to be much better for us.

Manufacturing processes destroy nutrients and upset the natural balance of foods. It is worthwhile understanding what is in the food you eat, and the best forms in which to eat it.

Five different food groups make up a healthy diet: fats, carbohydrates, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. You also need water, which is Found in most foods and makes up a large proportion of our body. Proteins should make up about 15 percent of the diet, carbohydrates 60 percent or more, and fats a maximum of 25 to 30 percent. Vitamins and minerals are found within each at these groups, and a balanced diet should have all or most represented in adequate levels. In the body, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats combine with other substances to yield energy and build bones and tissue. These chemical reactions are accelerated by specific vitamins and take place all over the body.

The vitamins that we need are divided into two categories water-soluble vitamins (the B vitamins and vitamin Q and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K).

The water-soluble vitamins are absorbed by the intestine and carried in the bloodstream to the tissues where they will be put into use. Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body and must be taken daily to prevent deficiency. They serve very many diverse functions in the body.

Fat-soluble vitamins have specialized functions. The intestine absorbs them, and the lymphatic system carries them to the different parts of the body. They are involved in maintaining the structure of cell membranes. Excessive intake of fat- soluble vitamins, particularly vitamins A and D, can lead to toxic levels in the body.

Without the 18 known minerals required for the maintenance of our bodies, vitamins cannot be assimilated effectively.

CHOOSING J'RRSH AND WHOLESOMK FOODS

The Western dice is in general high in cholesterol and fats (especially unhealthy saturated fats), low in dietary fiber, and high in refined sugars and animal products. People who eat diets that are low in fat and cholesterol, and high in dietary fiber, fruits, and vegetables are thinner, healthier, und have much more energy. Ailments such as aches and pains, headaches, diabetes, immune deficiencies, skin problems, and digestive disorders can all be linked to a nutritionally poor diet, and symptoms have disappeared in many people who decide to change their eating habits and follow a nutritionally sound diet.

Fresh fruits, vegetables, and salads should appear in your daily diet, and fresh meal and fish should be used in place of packaged or frozen foods. Many of the processes used to preserve food, such as freezing and canning, can result in a loss of nutrients. Wherever possible. Try to choose foods that are fresh and local, since long storage or periods of traveling can cause nutrients to be lost. Read the labels of foods carefully, avoiding any products that contain flavorings, preservatives, and colorings, many of which can be toxic.