Know yourself - Introductory Material

This article provides reference information that will help you determine your nutrient intake so you can identify which foods are best for you.

Your body is inhabited by trillions of bacterial cells. Some bacteria have the potential to harm you, but many benefit your health. Do probiotics, beneficial bacteria added to food, have a health promoting role and why are prebiotics important?

Antioxidants are often promoted as "life preserving" nutrients: a must have in your diet be it from food or supplementation. But what are antioxidants, what role do they play in supporting health, and are anti-oxidant supplements necessary?

Several hormones are necessary for effective nutrient digestion, absorption and metabolism of the nutrients in the foods and beverages you consume. What are these hormones and what functions do they perform?

Are you confused about cholesterol? Which foods contain "good" or "bad" cholesterol? If you have high blood cholesterol what does it mean for your health and what can you do to lower your blood cholesterol levels?