In this topic you will learn how eating healthful foods is an important step in helping your body grow healthy and strong.

Some foods contain substances called fats. Fats are a type of nutrient. A nutrient is a substance that your body needs for energy and growth. These nutrients are important.

One type of nutrient is carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are nutrients used by the body as its main source of energy. Carbohydrates are in foods that contain sugar, such as fruits. Carbohydrates are also in foods such as breads, cereals, and pasta.

Some foods have fats in them. Fats are substances that are used by the body as long-lasting sources of energy. Eating too many fats can add unhealthful weight to your body, but that doesn't mean that fats are bad. You don't need a lot of fat each day, but you do need some. Nuts, meats, and oils are foods that contain fats.

Some foods that contain fats have few other nutrients. Many people eat more fat than they need. Eating too many fatty foods can lead to heart disease. Be smart and limit how many fatty foods you eat.

A third nutrient your body needs is protein. Proteins are nutrients that the body uses for growth and the repair of cells. You get proteins from meat, milk, cheese, nuts, and beans.

Another substance the body needs is fiber. Fiber is a substance that helps move wastes through the body. Fiber is found in fruits, beans, vegetables, and whole wheat breads.

Vitamins and minerals are needed for the body to work properly. Vitamins are substances used by the body for growth. Some vitamins help prevent diseases.

Water is in every cell of your body. It is in your blood, sweat, tears, and saliva. Water is important for almost every process in your body. You should drink six to eight glasses of water every day.