"What do we need; what is the best; are they all the same?" are just a few of the frequently asked questions. Since this is such a vast topic, we will run a series dedicated to nutrition in an attempt to distinguish between fad, fact and fiction. We will also address questions about this topic during this series.

The basic diet consists of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Each of these serves a different purpose in the body and is not usually interchangeable. Carbohydrates are like kindling wood to a fire. They give the body an easy and quick form of energy. An example is pasta or rice. Fats, as much as we shy away from them, are also a good source of energy. They are like a hardwood log on a fire, hard to start but burn for a long time. An example is olive oil. Proteins are the building blocks for different parts of the body like muscle and hair. An example is eggs and fish. Minerals like calcium in our bones can acts as building blocks; as well the tools needed to produce energy or put the building blocks together. Vitamins are primarily used as tools for the body to do any form of work it needs. Each part of the diet has more functions than listed, but this is a good start.

The nature of our fast paced, high stress lifestyles, and the over processing of food with chemicals makes getting everything our bodies need by our diet alone difficult. Therefore, most people will benefit greatly from some form of nutritional supplement.

The next column will address the issue of vitamins, including what to look for, differences, most beneficial and biggest waste of money.

Original publication The Town Line newspaper South China, ME 04358
Information contained herein furnished by Nadeau Chiropractic Wellness Center
2135 N. Belfast Ave, Augusta, ME