Heart&Stroke Health Check^TM Program

The Function of Nutrients

Carbohydrate

• supplies energy

• assists in the utilization of fats

Protein

• helps build and repair body tissues

• helps build antibodies

Fat

• supplies energy

• aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, A,D, K, E

Vitamin A

• aids in normal bone and tooth development

• aids in the development and maintenance of night vision

• aids in maintaining the health of the skin and membranes

Vitamin D

• a factor in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth

• enhances calcium and phosphorus absorption and utilization

Vitamin E

• protects the fat in body tissues from oxidation

Vitamin C

• a factor in the development and maintenance of bones, cartilage, teeth and gums

Vitamin B1
(Thiamine)

• releases energy from carbohydrate

• aids normal growth

Vitamin B2
(Riboflavin)

• factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation

Niacin

• aids in normal growth and development

• factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation

Vitamin B6

• factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation

Folate

• aids in red blood cell formation
• may play a role in the prevention of neural tube disorders

Vitamin B12

• aids in red blood cell formation

Calcium

• aids in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth

Magnesium

• factor in energy metabolism, tissue formation and bone development

Iron

• factor in red blood cell formation

Zinc

• factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation

Sodium

• required for normal cell function and regulation of blood volume

Potassium

• required for normal cell function

• needed for proper nerve, muscle and blood cell function

Fibre

• soluble fibre plays a role in lowering blood cholesterol and controlling blood sugars
• insoluble fibre promotes satiety (a feeling of fullness), which may help with weight management; it also promotes regularity important for normal bowel function