nutrition podcast

In this nutrition podcast, the host discusses the main food groups and recommended guidelines. There are five main food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. Each group has recommended servings per day. The host also explains macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). They explain how to use this knowledge to make healthier choices when faced with junk food options. By checking food labels and considering the nutrition value and micronutrients, you can make smarter choices. It's not about saying no to treats entirely, but about maintaining a balanced diet. Healthy eating is about making smart choices that fuel your body and mind. Hello and welcome to our nutrition podcast where we explore the art of healthy eating and living our best lives through a balanced diet. I'm Isaac and today we'll delve in some very important nutrition topics to help you make correct choices for a healthier lifestyle. Let's kick things off by understanding the main food groups and recommended guidelines for each. Main food groups. As growing teenagers it's essential to enjoy a diverse range of foods to meet our body's demands. There are five main food groups to consider. Fruits. Fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber. In this category you should aim to at least two servings of fruits daily. Vegetables. Veggies are full of nutrition and fiber so aim for five servings of veggies each day. Grains. Whole grains like brown rice and bread offer sustained energy although it's tricky. You should try to have five servings of grains daily. Wow that's a lot. Protein. This is vital for growth, repair and sources like lean meat, beans and nuts provide the necessary protein. You should aim for two to three servings daily. Dairy. Dairy helps build strong bones so go for three servings of dairy, free milk, yogurt and or cheese. Now let's wrap our heads around macronutrients and micronutrients. Micronutrients. Those powerhouses are needed in significant amounts. Fill our bodies with energy. The three are carbohydrates found in grains, fruits and veggies. They give us quick energy for activities. Proteins. They help with muscle building potential of meats, beans and legumes supporting growth and repair. Fats. Fats are found in oils, nuts and avocados. They offer energy and assist in essential body functions. On the flip side micronutrients are the perfect help for our body. Required in small quantities from various bodily processes. Think vitamins like vitamin C and fruits and minerals like iron and meats and greens. Now let's apply this knowledge to a topic that's super relevant to you teens. How do you use the knowledge of healthy eating guidelines along with your understanding of macro and micronutrients to make wiser choices when faced with those irresistible junk food options. By referencing the healthy eating guidelines you already have a mental framework for a balanced diet. When considering those snack temptations like chips or candy bars take a moment to look at food labels. Check out the serving sizes, calories and ingredients. Think about the macros. The energy providers like carbs, proteins and fats and choose the option that offers a bit more nutrition value. Even among indulgent treats there might be a subtle difference in fiber or fewer added sugars. Additionally consider the micronutrients those vitamins and minerals that support your body's functions. Opt for snacks that have a hint of nutrients like calcium or iron. Remember it's not about saying no to treats entirely but about making the best choice among your options while you're keeping your overall diet balanced. This knowledge empowers you to enjoy treats in moderation without derailing your health goals. So next time you face that snack dilemma you've got the tools to make a smarter choice that aligns with your well-being. Alrighty then that's all for today's nutrition podcast. Remember healthy eating isn't about restrictive diets it's about making smart choices that fuel your body and mind. Take it step by step and you'll feel the difference in no time.