Nutrition and diet

Nutrition and Diet in Spanish – B1 Level Study Guide

This lesson focuses on essential vocabulary and expressions related to nutrition and diet, aimed at intermediate Spanish learners at the B1 level. You will learn how to discuss food choices, healthy eating habits, and dietary preferences in practical contexts.

Key Vocabulary

• La dieta – diet
• La alimentación – nutrition, feeding
• Los nutrientes – nutrients
• La fibra – fiber
• Las proteínas – proteins
• Las grasas – fats
• Las vitaminas – vitamins
• Comida saludable – healthy food
• Comida rápida – fast food
• El colesterol – cholesterol

Useful Expressions

• Seguir una dieta equilibrada – to follow a balanced diet
• Evitar alimentos procesados – to avoid processed foods
• Consumir frutas y verduras – to consume fruits and vegetables
• Hacer ejercicio regularmente – to exercise regularly
• Tengo alergia a los frutos secos – I am allergic to nuts

Grammar and Usage Highlights

This lesson also emphasizes expressions with the verb "seguir" when talking about following diets, and uses reflexive forms like "cuidarse" (to take care of oneself) in the context of health. You'll practice descriptive adjectives such as saludable (healthy) and nutritivo (nutritious) to describe foods.

Differences Between English and Spanish Nutrition Terms

In Spanish, "dieta" generally means the overall diet or eating habits, not just a diet for weight loss as it often implies in English. Another point is that Spanish often uses the verb seguir to describe adherence to a diet, whereas in English you might say "to be on a diet" or "to follow a diet." Additionally, food groups like "las proteínas" are plural, reflecting their countable nature in Spanish.

Some practical phrases to remember include:

• ¿Qué tipo de dieta sigues? – What type of diet do you follow?
• Es importante reducir el consumo de azúcar. – It’s important to reduce sugar intake.
• ¿Puedes recomendar alimentos ricos en fibra? – Can you recommend foods rich in fiber?

This guide prepares you to confidently discuss topics related to nutrition and healthy lifestyle in Spanish, with vocabulary and expressions suitable for daily conversations and practical situations.