Foods are composed of macronutrients, vitamins, minerals and water. Macronutrients include carbohydrates, fat and protein and aid in determining the nutritional value of a food. Nutritional value can be defined by a food's calories, the vitamins and minerals it provides or the fat, sodium, cholesterol or fiber it contains. Learning about the nutrient content in foods can help to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Function
Many people are unaware of the composition of foods, so a nutrient guide may be used to provide information for a specific diet. Typically, the user will look up a food, obtain the nutrient information and write down the details in a food journal. A food journal is used to record the amounts and aids in determining a daily nutrient total.
Types
Determining a food's nutritional value can be accomplished by using any number of online, print or electronic resources. For example, a book may be purchased or borrowed, free or fee-based online sites may be utilized or applications may be downloaded to a cellular phone. In addition, nutrients may be obtained from reading the Nutrition Facts Panel located on food labels. The user should select the type of nutrient guide that will be the most convenient so that it will provide maximum educational benefit.
Features
Nutrient guides may list calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates, sodium, fiber, vitamins or minerals. They may also include sections related to appropriate macronutrient intake, recipes and additional nutrition resources. The nutrients are usually listed in rows and columns and may contain hundreds or thousands of food values. Most nutritional value guides list information for the basic food groups, but more comprehensive guides will provide fast food and restaurant nutritional information.
Benefits
The benefits of a nutrient guide include obtaining the knowledge needed to adhere to a specific diet, which may be required for certain disease conditions. When followed properly, this may decrease risks for further health complications and possibly prolong lifespan. Furthermore, if a more comprehensive guide is utilized, then only one tool is needed to provide information.
Drawbacks
Looking up the nutrient value of foods can be time-consuming, which may cause some users to become frustrated and give up. In this case, a different type of guide or allotting for greater time may be implemented. Another drawback is using a limited guide. Additional resources may be needed to locate the information needed, which can also be time-consuming. The user should thoroughly examine a guide to determine which one will serve the best function.
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