UNDERSTANDING MACRONUTRIENTS (CARBS, PROTEINS, & FATS)


Macronutrients:

  • Macronutrients are the nutrients that are required by our body in large quantities.
  • These nutrients provide energy, support growth, and maintain overall health.
  • There are three main types of macronutrients:
    (i) Carbohydrates (a.k.a. Carbs)
    (ii) Proteins
    (iii) Fats


Carbohydrates:

  • Carbohydrates are primary source of energy for our body.
  • They're broken down into glucose, which is used by our cells to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
  • ATP is also known as "energy currency" of our cells.
  • 1 gram of "Carbs" = 4 kcal (Calories).
  • Common sources of carbohydrates include: grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and sugars.



Proteins:

  • Proteins are essential for building and repairing our tissues, supporting the immune system, and producing enzymes and hormones.
  • Proteins are made up of amino acids. Amino acids are also know as the building blocks of proteins.
  • 1 gram of "Protein" also = 4 kcal (Calories).
  • Good sources of protein include: meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and certain plant-based foods like tofu and quinoa.



Fats:

  • Fats are also known as lipids.
  • They're a concentrated source of energy and play a crucial role in hormone production, insulation, cushioning of organs, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
  • Fats are divided into different types, including saturated fats, unsaturated fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats), and trans fats.
  • 1 gram of Fat = 9 kcal (Calories).
  • Common sources of fats include: oils, butter, nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

WANT TO LOSE BELLY FAT??

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BMR, RMR, MAINTENANCE CALORIES, & TDEE

IMPORTANCE OF STAYING HYDRATED