Protein, Carbohydrate and Fat

Everything we eat is made up of different combinations of three basic food types (nutrients) called protein, carbohydrate and fat.  Each nutrient gives us energy or helps us grow.

Starch or Carbohydrates

Sugar and starch are carbohydrates that are the body’s main source of energy.  Sugar gives you energy straight away.  Starch (found in pasta, potatoes, bread and rice) gives you energy for hours.

Protein

Proteins are the building blocks that make up our muscles and tissues.  Young people need lots of protein to grow up properly.  You get proteins from meat but also from some vegetables.

Fat

Fat is the body’s main energy store.  Fat is stored to use as fuel when we run low on sugar or starch energy.  Fat is also important for brain function and helps protect us from the cold.  Young people need fat for growth.