What is...?

Calorie: this is a unit representing the energy released by food or which is consumed (used) by a person when doing physical activity.

Nutrients: these are substances that represent the "building blocks" of food, and which we use after digesting the food we eat.

Slow sugars or carbohydrates: these are the best form of energy, because it is released little by little. This energy can last an entire afternoon (or morning), and is used up when you run, play, think...; when you make an effort to do things.

Fast sugars: these are sugars or carbohydrates that release energy suddenly, causing it to "burn up" inside the body if there is no physical activity. In the mouth, they feed the bacteria that produce dental caries.

Fats or lipids: these are the nutrients that store most energy. Our body uses them to construct certain important molecules (hormones, cholesterol...), and is reluctant to lose them. Fats that are not used during exercise are stored as fatty tissue.

Group B vitamins: necessary for growth and skin. These vitamins make it possible to fully use carbohydrates and proteins.

Vitamin C: we use this vitamin to form our internal defenses. It is important for the skin, bones and teeth. It also acts against anemia because it helps absorb iron.

Calcium: this element is very important for the bones and teeth. It also plays a very important role in muscle contraction and heart beat.