Everyone needs fats, carbohydrates, and protein in order to thrive. However, the ratios of each of these will vary from person to person. For example, some thrive on very large amounts of vegetables and very little animal protein, while others need more protein and less vegetable carbs. The people who fear the worst on a vegetarian diet are those who require higher amounts of protein, as they're depriving their bodies of essential fuel. Here is your first nutrition lesson:

What is a carbohydrate? Don't be misled by fad diets that make Carbohydrates is on the list of dangerous food choices. They provide the body with fuel it needs for physical activity and for proper organ function, and they are an important part of our balanced eating lifestyle. But some kinds of carbohydrates are far better than others. Our Balanced Program will assist you with the right choices.

What is a protein? Protein is found throughout the body—in muscle, bone, skin, hair, and virtually every other body part or tissue. It makes up the enzymes that power many chemical reactions and the hemoglobin that carries oxygen in your blood. At least 10,000 different proteins make you what you are and keep you that way. Building blocks, called Amino Acids, provide the raw material for all proteins. Following genetic instructions, the body strings together amino acids. Some genes call for short chains of amino acids, others are blueprints for long chains that fold, into intricate, 3 dimensional structures.

The body doesn't store amino acids, as it does fats or carbohydrates, it needs a daily supply of amino acids to make new protein. Protein sources varies from meats and fish to legumes.

What is a fat? The total amount of fat you eat, whether high or low, isn't really linked with disease. What really matters is the type of fat you eat. The "bad" fats—saturated and trans fats—increase the risk for certain diseases. The "good" fats—monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats—lower disease risk. The key to a healthy diet is to substitute good fats for bad fats—and to avoid trans fats.

Although it is still important to limit the amount of cholesterol you eat, especially if you have diabetes, dietary cholesterol isn't nearly the villain it's been portrayed to be. Cholesterol in the bloodstream is what's most important. And the biggest influence on blood cholesterol level is the mix of fats in your diet—not the amount of cholesterol you eat from food. We will help you make the proper choices of good fat vs. bad fats.

The quality of the meat (which is primarily determined by the way it was raised), and the way it is cooked will impact its health benefits. As well as the types and amounts of vegetables chosen, because not all vegetables are created equal either. For example, increasing your vegetable intake with salads is a good start, but iceberg lettuce has minimal nutritional value. Red and green leaf lettuce, along with romaine lettuce and spinach, are more nutritious options. Eating a wide variety of vegetables is also important to ensure optimal nutrition.