iii Introduction Nutrition & Wellness for Life stresses the importance of a nutritious eating plan and daily physical activity throughout the life span. The text will help you understand how decisions you make today affect your state of wellness at various stages of the life cycle. The body’s need for various nutrients may be greater at certain stages of the life cycle. This text helps you understand the sources and functions of the nutrients your body requires for a lifetime of optimal health. You will learn how to achieve healthy weight and body composition by balancing energy. The text also discusses the health consequences of unhealthy eating and exercise patterns. Nutrition & Wellness for Life explores strategies for staying physically active through the life span. It covers the special needs of the competitive athlete. The text also discusses the relationship between social and mental health and your nutrition and activity. You will learn to recognize sources of stress and healthy strategies for reducing their impact on your total wellness. Healthy eating requires planning and preparation. The text discusses safe food handling as well as planning, shopping for, and preparing healthy meals.