9781422280522

Chapter 1 The Basics

W ords to U nderstand amino acid: an organic molecule that is the building block of proteins. bile: a bitter fluid produced by the liver that aids digestion. bioavailability: the amount of a vitamin or mineral that the body is able to use. collagen: a fibrous protein that is found in the body’s connective tissues, blood vessels, teeth, and bones. deficiency: not getting enough of something, such as vitamins or minerals in the diet. enzymes: proteins that start or speed up processes within the body. macronutrients: nutrients required in large amounts for the health of

living organisms, including proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. micronutrients: nutrients required in very small amounts for the health of living organisms. soluble: able to dissolve. T ake your vitamins!” is a command we’ve probably all heard at one time or another. Maybe it was a parent giving us a Flintstones chewable, or a doctor or teacher informing us about the things we need to do to stay healthy. However we’ve encountered them, vitamins and minerals are essential to the proper functioning of our bodies. Without them, we would be unable to do the

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