Dietary minerals are important to the growing needs of infants and children. These nutrients help establish a foundation for a healthy adult life. Excessive intake of dietary minerals may lead to illness directly or indirectly. This is due to the competitive nature between mineral levels in the body. Dietary mineral deficiency may cause all kinds of health problems.
Fats are important components of a healthy diet. They provide our body energy. It is estimated that about 33-35% of our daily calories intake is in the form of fats (Fats provide more than twice as much energy as either carbohydrate or protein). Besides, fats also help to transport fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D and E, produce hormones and form part of the structure of cell membranes.
Proteins are complex structures of amino acids. Proteins provide 4 calories for each gram of weight. Adequate intake of protein is essential to our health as they are used for the following body functions.
Recommended Intakes for Infants, Chidrens, Pregnant Women and Breastfeeding Moms
Carbohydrates are sugar of various types that provide our body with energy. Carbohydrates provide 4 calories for each gram of weight. There are two main types of carbohydrates.