In part 1 we took a look at the definition of nutrition and a few reasons on why the right nutrition is so important.
In this post we are going to look at Macro-nutrients.
Macro-nutrients are the biggest contributors to the maximum energy needs and requirements of the body.
They are 1) Proteins 2) Carbohydrates and 3) Fats
1) Proteins: They are the building blocks of the body and are essential for growth, recovery energy, fat loss, muscle gain, enzymes and many other functions in the body. They also play an important part for all physiological systems of the body. Proteins are made of amino acids which are also known as building blocks of life. 13 are non-essential (which are made by the body) and 9 are essential (cant be made by the body but available only through diet). Proteins can be used as a source of energy but it is not the most efficient source.
2) Carbohydrates: These are the preferred energy source of the body. They are converted to glucose for the body to work effectively. There are three varieties of carbs:
a) Simple (glucose, fructose, galactose, sucrose, lactose, maltose)
b) Complex (starch)
c) Dietary fiber (soluble, insoluble)
3) Fats: The biggest criminal of the macro-nutrient family...........or is it? Fats are the other excellent source of energy for the body and also helps to efficiently absorb fat soluble vitamins. It can be stored in the body if in excess. Fats are an energy source and gives shape and structure to the body. It is also vital for proper hormonal growth and function. There are different types of fats but the two major categories are
a) Saturated
b) Un-Saturated
There is a lot more to be said about each of these topics but its just meant to give a simple overview. In the next post we are going to take a look at Micro-nutrients and water.
Courtesy: http://temple-of-fitness.blogspot.in/
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