Do you hear about macronutrients, or macros, and wonder what that’s all about? Well, macronutrients play a very important role in providing your body with energy, growth and repair and maintaining overall health. There are three forms of macronutrients:
Carbohydrates – these are the body’s primary source of energy. They can be found in foods such as grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes. They fuel the body, brain and central nervous system. They also aid in digestion and elimination. The two types are simple or complex. Simple is used for a quick energy boost and complex helps maintain energy for a longer time. 45-65% of your daily caloric intake should be from complex carbohydrates.
Proteins – these are essential for building and repairing tissues, synthesis of hormones and enzymes. They are found in meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, nuts and seeds. They help build and repair, they help regulate hormones, they have a role in immune function, and transport of nutrients throughout blood. There are two types complete and incomplete. Complete are found in animal products and soy. Incomplete are found in plant sources. Protein should take up 10-35% of your daily caloric intake and be a variety of complete and incomplete.
Fats – fats provide energy, insulate organs, maintain cell membranes, and help to absorb some crucial vitamins. They are found in oils, butter, nuts, seeds, avocados and fatty fish. They provide a concentrated source of energy, support cell growth, protect organs, aid in absorption of vitamins. There are few different types of fats and focus should be on unsaturated fats. 20-35% of your daily caloric intake should include fats.
Do you find you are struggling to hit the above ratios? We have a dietitian on our team who can come to you or offer virtual dietary services to help you out!