What are Macronutrients?

I’m sure you have heard the term macronutrients before. But what exactly are these nutrients and why are they so important? Well you all know that our bodies require the consumption of foods to help maintain energy levels as well as the many different functions the body performs. The nutrients of these foods that we consume the most of on a daily basis is our macronutrients. These nutrients consist of your carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and water. 

In terms of providing energy to the body, carbohydrates reign king. As it is the body’s main fuel source for energy. And is digested the fastest compared to the other macronutrients. I know there is a lot of misconception about carbohydrates, especially when it comes to weight loss. But just know that carbohydrates are not the enemy. They are vital to your health and performance. Try to lower your intake of simple refined sugars, and increase your fiber intake, eat more complex carbohydrates and whole grains. Foods like quinoa, oats, buckwheat, and sweet potatoes.

Lipids, more commonly known as fats are also used by the body for energy. I talked about fats in another one of my blogs which I definitely recommend you check out if you have not already. To summarize, your goal should be to lower your intake of saturated fatty acids and cholesterol while focusing on essential fatty acids. Avocados, fish, many different types of nuts, olives as well as olive oil, and yogurt are all good sources of fat in the diet. 

Proteins are a very important macronutrient to your body. Even though proteins can serve as an energy source, the body tries to preserve them for the use of growth, maintenance, and repair of cells, including muscle cells which is important for recovery after a workout. That’s why it is imperative that you consume enough protein on a daily basis to help your muscles grow and recover. Just like with healthy fats, the more you consume lean meats for protein the better off you will be. Try to consume more lean meats like, fish, egg whites, skim milk products, chicken, and turkey. 

Understand this is just a brief summary of the macronutrients to help bring some light to the nutrition aspect of health and fitness. I encourage you to do your own research and help educate yourself on these nutrients to better understand the functions they have on your body and the importance of getting the right amounts of each and from healthy sources of food. For if you really want to get results in terms of body composition or weight, you must focus on the types of foods you consume and the amounts, especially in regards to your energy balance. 

Coach Dylan