Macronutrients

Nutrients the body needs in large amounts to provide energy and support basic functions like growth, metabolism, and repair.

1. Carbohydrates

• Main energy source for the body

• Found in: bread, rice, fruits, vegetables, pasta

• Broken down into glucose for energy

2. Proteins

• Build and repair tissues; important for muscle, hormones, enzymes

• Found in: meat, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, nuts

• Made up of amino acids

3. Fats

• Provide energy, support cell growth, protect organs, help absorb vitamins

• Found in: oils, butter, nuts, avocados, fatty fish

• Includes: saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats

Micronutrients

Nutrients the body needs in small amounts, but essential for health, development, and disease prevention.

Vitamins (Organic Compounds)

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Stored in fat tissues and liver; excess can accumulate in the body.

• Vitamin A (Retinol): vision, immune function

• Vitamin D (Calciferol): calcium absorption, bone health

• Vitamin E (Tocopherol): antioxidant, protects cells

• Vitamin K: blood clotting, bone health

Water-Soluble Vitamins

Not stored in the body; excess is excreted in urine.

B-Complex Vitamins:

• Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): energy metabolism, nerve function

• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): energy production, cell function

• Vitamin B3 (Niacin): metabolism, DNA repair

• Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): synthesis of coenzyme A

• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitters

• Vitamin B7 (Biotin): fat and carbohydrate metabolism

• Vitamin B9 (Folate/Folic Acid): DNA synthesis, cell division

• Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): red blood cell formation, nervous system

• Other Water-Soluble Vitamin:

• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): antioxidant, immune support, collagen synthesis

Minerals (Inorganic Elements)

Major (Macrominerals)

Needed in larger amounts.

• Calcium: bones, muscle contraction

• Phosphorus: bones, energy storage

• Potassium: fluid balance, nerve signals

• Sodium: fluid balance, nerve/muscle function

• Magnesium: enzyme reactions, nerve/muscle function

• Chloride: fluid balance, stomach acid

• Sulfur: component of some amino acids

Trace Minerals (Microminerals)

Needed in smaller amounts.

• Iron: oxygen transport in blood

• Zinc: immune function, wound healing

• Copper: iron metabolism, nervous system

• Manganese: bone formation, metabolism

• Iodine: thyroid hormone production

• Selenium: antioxidant, thyroid function

• Fluoride: tooth and bone health

• Chromium: insulin function, blood sugar control

• Molybdenum: enzyme functionoes here

1. Myth: Carbs Make You Gain Weight

Truth:

Carbohydrates themselves don’t cause weight gain—excess calories do. Whole carbs like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains are rich in fiber and essential nutrients. Refined carbs (like white bread or sugary snacks) can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess, but carbs are not inherently "fattening."

2. Myth: All Fat Is Bad for You

Truth:

Not all fats are equal. Healthy fats (like unsaturated fats in avocados, nuts, and olive oil) support heart and brain health. It’s trans fats and excess saturated fats that are linked to heart disease. In fact, fat is essential for hormone production, nutrient absorption, and cell function.

3. Myth: Detox Diets Cleanse Your Body

Truth:

Your liver, kidneys, and digestive system already detox your body naturally. There’s no scientific evidence that juice cleanses, “detox teas,” or restrictive diets eliminate toxins. Instead, a balanced diet with plenty of water, fiber, and nutrients supports your body’s natural detoxification.

4. Myth: Eating Late at Night Causes Weight Gain

Truth:

Weight gain is primarily about total calorie intake vs. expenditure, not the time you eat. However, late-night eating can lead to mindless snacking or poor food choices, which may increase calorie intake. It’s more about what and how much you eat—not when.

5. Myth: Supplements Can Replace a Healthy Diet

Truth:

Supplements can help in cases of deficiency, but they can’t replace the complex nutrients found in whole foods. Foods contain a synergistic mix of vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and other compounds that work together for health—something pills alone can’t replicate.

Caffeine can be both beneficial and harmful, depending on the amount consumed, personal tolerance, and timing of intake.

Benefits of Caffeine (in Moderation)

• Enhances alertness and concentration

• Improves physical performance and endurance

• May reduce the risk of certain diseases (e.g., Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s)

• Contains antioxidants, especially in coffee and tea

• Can improve mood and help relieve headaches

Risks of Excessive Caffeine Consumption

• Can lead to anxiety, restlessness, or jitteriness

• May increase heart rate or blood pressure

• Can disrupt sleep, particularly if consumed later in the day

• Might cause digestive issues, such as acid reflux

• Can lead to dependence or withdrawal symptoms (e.g., headaches, irritability)

Recommended Daily Intake

• Adults: 200 to 400 milligrams per day is considered safe

• Equivalent to ~2–4 cups of coffee or 1–2 energy drinks (varies by brand)

• Sensitive Individuals: Under 200 milligrams per day is advisable, or caffeine may be avoided altogether

• Teenagers (ages 12–18): No more than 100 milligrams per day

• About 1 8-ounce cup of coffee, 2 12-ounce cans of soda, or 1 energy drink

Best Time to Consume Caffeine

• Early in the day is ideal to prevent sleep interference

• For physical performance, consume 30–60 minutes before exercise

Conclusion

Caffeine can be a helpful and safe stimulant when used responsibly. Sticking to recommended limits and being mindful of your body’s response will allow you to benefit from its effects while minimizing potential risks.

1. Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1 cup milk (or almond/soy milk)

• 1 tbsp peanut butter

• 1 banana (sliced)

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• Optional: honey for sweetness

• Instructions:

1. Combine oats, milk, peanut butter, banana, and cinnamon in a jar.

2. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight.

3. Eat cold in the morning or heat briefly in the microwave.

Notes: Protein and carbohydrates for recovery. Budget-friendly and easy to prep ahead.

2. Tuna & Rice Power Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 can tuna in water (drained)

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

• ½ cup frozen peas or mixed veggies (thawed or microwaved)

• 1 tbsp olive oil or mayo

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: hot sauce or lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Mix tuna, veggies, and olive oil or mayo in a bowl.

2. Serve over warm rice.

3. Season with salt, pepper, and any extras.

Notes: High-protein, filling, and inexpensive.

3. Egg and Veggie Scramble

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs

• ½ cup chopped onion, bell pepper, or spinach (or any affordable veggies)

• 1 tbsp oil or butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan. Add veggies and cook until soft.

2. Beat eggs and pour into the pan.

3. Stir gently until scrambled and cooked through.

4. Top with optional cheese.

Notes: Protein-rich, customizable, and very affordable.

4. Chicken, Beans, and Corn Wrap

Ingredients:

• 1 cooked chicken breast (or canned chicken)

• ½ cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)

• ½ cup canned corn (drained)

• 1 large tortilla

• Salsa or hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Mix chicken, beans, and corn.

2. Warm the tortilla slightly.

3. Fill with mixture and top with salsa.

4. Roll up and serve.

Notes: Balanced protein, carbs, and fiber. Easy for meal prep.

5. Greek Yogurt Parfait

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt

• ½ cup granola

• ½ cup frozen or fresh berries

Instructions:

1. Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in a bowl or jar.

2. Repeat layers as desired.

Notes: Protein, carbs, and antioxidants in a quick, affordable snack.