In order to minimize health risks for chronic issues such as high blood pressure, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, stroke, obesity, etc. certain dietary needs must be met. Additionally, the body requires a daily dose of energy to do work and function efficiently. For this, it is recommended that adults should aim to consume food such that 45-65% of their calories come from carbohydrates, 20-35% from healthy fats, and 10-35% from protein. Additionally, children and adults must spend at least one hour daily doing moderately intense physical activity to maintain cardiovascular health.
Nutrition requirements for children are similar to those recommended for adults; however, infants and younger children must consume slightly higher amounts of fats – about 25-40% of calories consumed (9).
