Nutrition & Health

Vitamin D is produced by the skin when exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from sunlight. It is essential for calcium absorption and bone health.

Carbohydrates are the body's preferred and quickest source of energy. They are broken down into glucose, which fuels cells, tissues, and organs.

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is critical for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. About 99% of the body's calcium is stored in bones.

Bananas are well known for their high potassium content. A medium banana contains about 422 mg of potassium, which helps regulate heart rhythm and muscle function.

The human body is approximately 60% water. Water is essential for nearly every bodily function, including temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and waste removal.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) prevents scurvy, a disease once common among sailors. Citrus fruits, which are rich in vitamin C, were famously used by the British Navy to prevent it.

Monounsaturated fats, found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts, are considered heart-healthy. They can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.

BMI stands for Body Mass Index, a measurement that uses height and weight to estimate body fat. It is widely used as a screening tool for weight categories.

Salmon is one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which support heart health, brain function, and help reduce inflammation.

Dietary fiber promotes healthy digestion by adding bulk to stool and helping food move through the digestive tract. It can also help lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar levels.

Folate (vitamin B9), often taken as folic acid in supplements, is crucial during early pregnancy. Adequate intake significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida.

The American Heart Association recommends an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg of sodium per day for most adults, with an upper limit of 2,300 mg. Excess sodium is linked to high blood pressure.

Lycopene is the powerful antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color. Research suggests it may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer.

Lysine is often the limiting amino acid in many plant-based protein sources, particularly grains. Legumes are a good complementary source, which is why beans and rice together form a complete protein.

Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia and fatigue.