Several population studies have established reference intakes for Energy and Nutrients for each kind of population or individual. In healthy individuals the recommended food plan is 30 Kcal per Kilogram (of Healthy Weight). It’s recommended lower If overweight (25 to 20 Kcal / Kg), each case is different. Then the total calories per weight are distributed in percentages for each nutrient.
As we already know Macro Nutrients (protein, fat and carbohydrates) provide energy to the body; it is recommended that protein should provide 10 to 15% of the total calories, for individuals with proper weight, and 15 to 20% for those who are overweight (this is estimated by a nutritionist). Fats should provide up to 30% of the total calories in a diet for individuals with average weight. For those who are overweight value should be less than 30% and up to 20% depending on the case. Carbohydrates are calculated by difference to complete a 100%, generally the contribution of this nutrient is in the order of 55 to 60% of the total calories.
This is calculated based on the estimates; the amount and type of foods that are going to form the Balanced Food Plan (that means to adapt the calories and nutrients needed individually) should be adjusted to each individual need.For such plan it is necessary to know the caloric and nutritional level of each food, which can be found in the Food Composition Tables. There are also tables that divide foods into groups of milk, vegetables, fruits, cereals, meat, fats, and sugar. Each group has calculated an average input of nutrients (protein, fats and CHO). Daily intakes are calculated based on this list and then divided into three main meals and snacks.
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Friday, December 28th, 2007 at
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