Nutrition
It is helpful to know when starting a diet the basics of nutrition and what the foods we eat are made up of. Foods are edible substances that contain number of elements such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. They also contain water and non-digestible matter such as fibre. Most foods contain a bit of each in varying proportions and the body uses each in a different way and has an innate ability to make best use of whatever it is fed. Since most diets are a rearrangement of the dietary percentages of these basic elements it is helpful to know what they do.

The Basic Food Groups
Our diet should contain lots of macronutrients; these are carbohydrates, proteins and fats. These provide the body with the energy to do its daily tasks and to repair damaged cell tissue. The body needs only tiny amounts of micronutrients to do its job and these help the body in a wide range of ways.

Water
water gets a special mention as many diets recommend about 8 glasses of water a day and not many people follow this advice. Water makes up about 70% of the body and is essential for every bodily function. It transports nutrients and gets rid of waste products out of the body's cells. It is necessary for digestion and circulation. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water will help you diet as it is an inexpensive and calorie free drink that will make you feel less hungry during a diet. It is also an essential formula for health and for the body to perform its necessary functions.

More information on
Carbohydrates, Sugar and Fibre
Fats
Proteins
Vitamins and Minerals