Macro nutrients and micro nutrients, commonly called macros and micros, refer to the nutrients present in the foods we eat. The human body needs these nutrients for normal function, with macro nutrients required in larger quantities while micro nutrients are necessary in small quantities.
This blog discusses the types of macro nutrients found in foods and classifies them to understand what foods are better for specific fitness goals.
MACRO NUTRIENTS
Macronutrients are important for the diet since they are responsible for everyday cell growth, cell repair and it helps to maintain optimum energy levels in the body.
Macros are essential nutrients since our bodies cannot make these nutrients on their own and need them from external sources for proper body function.
The 3 sources of macros are carbohydrates, proteins, and fat. And most foods are a combination of two macros or contain all three of the macros in some quantities.
Carbohydrates
- Carbohydrates/carbs are foods containing starch and sugar. The body breaks carbs down to generate glucose, which is used either as an immediate source of energy or stored in the body as fat reserves.
- Such foods are the body’s primary source of energy and carbs are abundant in foods like rice, wheat, potatoes, and bread.
Proteins
- Proteins are the building blocks of the muscles and they are a major component in many organs of the human body. Our body requires proteins for the proper functioning of organs and is essential to develop a healthy immune system.
- Foods like tofu, soy, poultry, meat, fish, and eggs are good sources of proteins.
Fat
- Dietary fats are the most calorie-dense among all the macronutrients but they are just as essential for the body to absorb nutrients effectively and help with brain development and good nerve function.
- Fats are to be consumed in moderation and are found in cooking oils, nuts, dairy products, and the like.
CALORIES AND NUTRIENT-RICH DIETS
At a fundamental level, diets revolve around eating an optimal amount of proteins, carbs, and fat through calorie tracking.
Whether it is a weight loss diet, weight gain plan, muscle-building regime, or even a simple weight maintenance routine, it is important to track calories gained from consuming macronutrients and maintain optimum calorie intake for the day.
And any fitness routine should strive to focus more on overall calorie tracking while consciously loading on more whole foods, fruits, and vegetables, rather than regulating a macro nutrient ratio.
Some of the best strategies to reach fitness goals include:
- Eating more nutrient-rich and whole foods
- Calorie tracking
- Portion control and
- Regular exercise
Your macronutrient levels can vary according to your day and through your steady diet plan. The only thing to consider is to keep a check on calories and reduce your carbs and fat intake accordingly.
It is just as important to experiment with macronutrient levels to find out what satiates your appetite better while keeping you healthy at the same time.
Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!
