Importance of Macronutrients

Macronutrients by definition means a substance required in relatively large amounts by living organisms. It is broken up into three groups, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are daily necessities that help us function and do the things that we need to do to keep our bodies healthy. It is very important for us to get the right amount of macronutrients so that we can exercise.

 

Carbohydrates

           Carbohydrates are very important because it is a form of energy for your brain. It also is the main source of energy and provides fuel (glucose) in order for your body to function properly. Carbs (short for carbohydrates) are made up of sugars, starches, and cellulose, glucose units. Carbs break down into glucose which then turns into glycogen, which is a form of sugar your body uses to function.

The recommended intake of Carbs per day is around 50 %. This information is based on the average suggested amount, meaning that the numbers are based mostly on your gender, weight, age, and activity level.

Some healthy carbohydrates we suggest are:

-       Grains, cereal, vegetables, fruits, pasta, beans

 

Fats

            Fat in our diets is very important because it is one of the main sources of energy that our bodies need. Fat is needed to prevent essential fatty acid deficiency and to help absorb essential vitamins such as vitamins A, E, and K. It protects vital organs in our bodies and is an excellent storage space where our bodies stores backup food for when our blood sugar runs low. It also insulates our body to help keep us warm. Fat is made up of triglyceride molecules.

The average daily intake of fat for a teenagers should be around 35% of their daily intake of calories. Of course this percentage can range based on weight, activity level, age, and gender.   

Some healthy fats that we suggest are:

-       Olive oil, avocado, hazelnuts, canola oil

 

 

Proteins

         Proteins are very important for our bodies because they help build and repair muscles and other tissues. Protein is made up of amino acids. There are 22 amino acids and 8 of which are found in proteins. The ones found in protein are called the essential amino acids and our bodies need them to survive. Our bodies cannot produce them so its very important for us to have them in our diet.  Protein also helps our bodies fight diseases.

            The recommended intake of protein per day is about 15% of your daily caloric intake.

Some healthy proteins we suggest would be:

-       Meat, Eggs, Almonds, Yogurt, Peanut butter           

 

By: Heather Foti

 

 

http://www.childrenfirst.nhs.uk/teens/health/dear_doc/archive/d/diet_rda.html

http://www.indoorclimbing.com/Protein_Requirement.html

http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0922553.html

http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec12/ch152/ch152b.html

http://www.eatingdisordersonline.com/nutritional/fats.php

http://www.abscofitness.com/importance-of-protein-in-our-diet.htm