Remember the old adage you are what you eat? Truer words have never been spoken. It amazes me to see people who feed their cars the absolute best gasoline they can find yet feed their bodies complete junk. These people are so proud of how well their cars perform yet so puzzled why they always feel so lousy. In order for your body to operate at peak performance and look sleek and firm you must provide it with the proper fuel.

The problem we face today is there are so many different diets on the market all touted as the ultimate way to eat. It's no wonder why people have become so confused about making proper food choices. We want to clear up some of the myths and misconceptions by examining a few key components of basic nutrition.

There are six essential nutrients in the human diet; carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.

Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are referred to as macronutrients. Sufficient amounts of each must be consumed in order for the body to function properly.

Carbohydrates play a major role in providing energy for the body. Carbohydrates are classified as starches and sugars and come in simple or complex forms. Simple forms have a high sugar content and include cakes, cookies, candy and soda. Complex forms provide a more sustained release of energy and include breads, cereals, pasta, fruits, and vegetables.

Proteins on the other hand are only used for energy if insufficient calories are provided from carbohydrates and fats. Protein is instead used in building and maintaining cells. Quality sources of protein include eggs, milk, cheese, meat, and fish.

Contrary to popular belief fats are necessary in our diets for a number of reasons. For instance they carry the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K as well as providing the body with a very concentrated source of energy (twice that of proteins and carbs). A good portion of the fat we consume is invisible. This is the reason why people are unaware of the high fat content in their diets. Invisible fats can be found in milk, eggs, nuts, and ice cream.

Vitamins and minerals are referred to as micronutrients.

Vitamins are organic (carbon containing) compounds. They don't provide the body with energy however are needed to assist chemical reactions in cells. There are two categories of vitamins fat soluble (A, D, E, and K) and water soluble (B and C).

Minerals are inorganic substances. They help regulate body processes by being incorporated in the structures of bones, teeth, muscles, hormones, and enzymes. Minerals include calcium, phosphorous, sodium, iron, and zinc to name a few.

Vitamin and mineral supplements aren't needed for most people if they are eating a well-rounded diet.

Water is by far the most important of the nutrients. The body can survive weeks without food but only a few days without water. The body itself is comprised of 40 - 60% water. Eight 8oz. Servings of water should be consumed each and every day.

With Fitness Solutions' customized nutritional program you will learn how to incorporate the proper amounts of these six nutrients into your diet. No longer will you be confused about the proper approach to nutrition. With our guidance you will develop nutritional habits that will last you a lifetime and put you on the road to the achieving your fitness goals.