The chemical substances of which the body is composed are very similar to those of the foods which nourish it.

From 15 to 20 elements are found. Among the most abundant are, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, carbon, calcium, phosphorus and sulphur.

The elements are so combined as to form a great variety of compounds.

The five most important compounds are:

Protein.

Carbohydrates.

Fats and oils.

Mineral matter.

Water.

Protein

This term means the principal nitrogenous compounds.

Protein is found in the lean of meat and gristle, white of egg, curd of milk and gluten of wheat, etc.

Carbohydrates

By this term is meant the compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. The carbohydrates are found chiefly in vegetable foods, in starch, different kinds of sugars and plant fibers (cellulose).

Fats And Oils

Fats and oils are found chiefly in animal foods, such as meat, fish, butter. They are also found in large quantities in some cereals, nuts, and in vegetable products, such as olives, and also in cotton seed.

Mineral Matter

The mineral compounds are found in both the animal and vegetable world and contain carbon, oxygen and hydrogen. Some contain nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur.

Water

Water is one of the most abundant of the five food principles. It forms about 60 per cent of the weight of the body.

Water is a great solvent. It is called the "Universal Carrier."

Good drinking water is a clear, colorless, almost tasteless, odorless liquid.

In boiling, water will lose its gases. They may be replaced by beating in air.

Organic Foods

Protein.

Carbohydrates.

Fats and oils.

Inorganic Foods

Water.

Mineral matter.