ABSTRACT
Understanding the role of nutrition is essential for any student of exercise physiology. Chapter 2 covers the major aspects of nutrition for exercise physiology, from the micro to the macro. On a chemical level, 26 elements are found within the human body, with certain ions and electrolytes responsible for human structure and functioning. Enzymes act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions which deliver the energy we need for living. Macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, and protein) are the three greatest sources of energy for the human body. Micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are vital to optimal physiological function. Digestion is the absorption of macro- and micronutrients (either broken down for energy or synthesised for storage). The chapter ends with a discussion of the components of a healthy, balanced diet.
