Certain nutrients are identified as high priority because many Americans do not meet the dietary recommendations for them, leading to negative impacts to overall health. Learn which key nutrients are the highest concern, their important roles in the body, and common food sources to help meet recommendations.
Eating healthy doesn't need to be complicated. Try out these practical suggestions to help better meet nutrient recommendations; consume more fruits, vegetables, and fiber; and consume less added sugar, salt, and saturated fat.
Review the three macronutrients - carbohydrates, protein, and fat, which are all essential in large amounts for overall health. Learn the definition and overview of macronutrients, highlights of their primary functions in the body, energy they provide, and common food sources. Use this guide to better understand how these nutrients contribute to a balanced diet and fuel your daily activities.
While some individuals might choose to meet their dietary protein needs using plant-based sources, it is important to take into consideration the quality of protein to ensure these sources are providing what our bodies need. Use this resource to learn more about protein quality, including what determines it, how to maximize it in the diet, and how to evaluate and calculate it as well as examples of plant-based protein sources, their protein content, and protein quality scores.
Learning the basics of nutrition – including key nutrients (macronutrients and micronutrients) and their functions and food sources – will build the foundation of your nutrition knowledge. To have a well-rounded diet, it is important to include all three macronutrients: carbohydrates, protein, and fat and micronutrients, vitamins and minerals.
Dietary fats play a vital role in supporting overall health, from providing energy to aiding in the absorption of essential vitamins. Review the functions of fat and why they are an essential part of a balanced diet.
Vitamins and minerals are important for promoting our overall health, with many playing a role in everything from energy production to immune function. This graphic highlights which vitamins and minerals play a role in different functions in the body as well as common food sources to help you meet recommendations.
Not all dietary fats are created equal, and understanding their differences can help you make healthier choices. Review the different types of fats (unsaturated, saturated, and trans fats), their health impacts, and common food sources.
While vitamins and minerals are both considered micronutrients, there are some key differences between and within these two nutrient groups. Learn the characteristics and functions of different vitamins and minerals, including their unique roles in overall health.
Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, yet many people fall short of meeting their daily fluid needs. This guide highlights hydration trends and provides simple tips to boost fluid intake and make proper hydration a daily habit.
