Nutrition is simple, enjoyable, and the way to fuel your body. Nutrition basics start with an understanding of what the body needs for performance. There are many parts to the nutrition story, but the first steps are with the three calorie nutrients:

• Carbohydrates
• Protein
• Fat

A healthy eating plan should include:

• 45-60% calories from carbohydrates
• 10-35% from protein
• 25-35% from fat

How much of each nutrient you need varies with your caloric intake. For more information on each calorie nutrient, click on a link below.

In addition to calories, other nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and, of course, water are important to a healthy body. Check the nutrition content of the foods you eat on campus at Washington University Daily Menus. Knowing about vitamins and minerals, what they do and how much you need may seem confusing, but getting the right amount is as simple as "making the right food choices."

Several guides for "right food choices" are available - the Food Guide Pyramid, based on the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans provides an easy explanation of eating right based on body size, gender and activity level. The most important part of "right food choices" is finding a plan that meets your particular health and taste needs. Develop a plan for your needs by going to shs.wustl.edu to schedule an appointment with the dietitian on campus.