Explore the science and nutritional elements of food, their role in the human body, and their impact on our health!

CARBS
What are carbohydrates, and why do we need them? Learn how our bodies use carbs, how many we should eat each day, and which foods are healthier choices for carbs than others.
Begin to understand the role of glucose, fructose, sucrose, lactose and other sugars in the diet. Learn why people who go on carb-reducing diets lose weight and why carbohydrates are a more efficient fuel than protein. Also, get important facts about blood sugar, insulin, diabetes, and the glycemic index. 21 minutes

FATS
We often think of fat as harmful, but it is actually very important to the body. It is equally important to learn the effects of fats on the body in order to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Why is fat so important to a person's diet? Is all fat bad? Discover the importance of lipids to good nutrition, the differences between various kinds of fat, and how fats relate to vitamins, hormones, energy, and our nervous system. Understand the consequences of consuming certain foods, and how to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. 22 minutes

PROTEIN
The word "protein" comes from a Greek word that means "of prime importance."
Proteins help us see, contract our muscles, and clot blood. Our organs and immune system are made up of mostly protein. Learn what a protein is and the foods that provide it, how our bodies process protein, the difference between high and low quality proteins, and the recommended intakes of this essential nutrient. Learn what the best dietary sources of protein are and how our bodies use amino acids. 21 minutes

MINERALS
Minerals are more than squares on the periodic table; they're crucial to our health. Learn the names and functions of minerals, and which foods are the best sources to ensure proper nutrition. Understand the differences between vitamins and minerals, and what defines a mineral as "major" or "trace." Also, see how minerals behave in our bodies once we ingest them, as well as how they react with each other in many vital bodily functions. 28 minutes

VITAMINS
Do you hear the word "vitamins" and envision pills? In fact, our main source of vitamins is the food that we eat. This video teaches the basics about these essentials to human nutrition. Learn what vitamins are, and how they keep us healthy. Get tips on the best ways to get all the vitamins you need. Explore the latest research about the dangers of "overdosing" on vitamins. Understand the signs of a vitamin shortage in your body. Discover whether vitamins can stop cancer, slow aging, or boost energy. And learn if we should take vitamins to counter stress, illness, or that "run down" feeling. 21 minutes

WATER
Learn what water does for the body, from cell structure and joint lubrication to body temperature regulation and vitamin dissolution. Understand potential problems, such as what dehydration is and can do, and what water contamination means to third world countries and disaster areas. Learn what concerns surround water alternatives like energy drinks and sodas. Get recommendations for water intake daily and during exercise, where we get our water, and health regulations for purity, filtrations and additives. 21 minutes

*Closed Captioned