The fitness industry is ever evolving. From fad diets, exercise trends, there is literally new information each and every week, whether it lasts the test of time is the question!
A lot of the information that we practice and preach within the fitness industry is science based that has lasted the test of time. It's marketing wizards that are able to use that basic information, blend it there own special 'diet plan' and sell it as something different is when the information gets blurry.
Today's topic is the perfect example of that, Macronutrients is the banner we use to describe Carbohydrates, Proteins and Fats, simply put, the bodies source of energy. What we do know is the body has a different process in absorbing, metabolising and ultimately releasing energy to utilise these macronutrient intakes.
Over time, macronutrients themselves have involved, 100 years ago you could only consume a protein source from animals, nuts and various diary products. In today's world, we know we can get our protein supplies from various plant based items, legumes and nuts and of course (purely for lifestyle) processed sources. Today's blog is more so an explanation of what our Macronutrients are, how the body uses them and how you may be able to clean up your eating habits for the better!
WHAT ARE MACRONUTRIENTS OR MACROS?
Macronutrients are our fuel required for our body to function! Carbohydrates, Protein & Fats are all readily available as a fuel source consumed by our body providing us with energy to exercise, to breath, to move, to eat, to talk but more importantly to FUNCTION.
CARBOHYDRATES
Carbs may have a bit of a bad wrap in the weight loss world, however Carbohydrates are our simplest energy source. They are readily available for use as quick burning energy. Carbs are consumed then broken down into glucose; which spikes our blood sugar resulting in our energy levels spiking for a sharp burst of energy. A lot of our processed foods are high in sugar, which as an energy source (unfortunately) isn’t sustainable for longer periods of time. Because glucose is so quickly produced, excess glucose within the blood needs to be stored somewhere right! And I think we all know the answer of where it ends up. (Fat cells for those in denial).
Some Wholefood Carbohydrate Ideas: Green leafy Vegetables, Beans, Legumes, Root Vegetables, Grains, Berries & Seasonal fruits
FATS
When our Carbohydrate stores are scarce, our body can readily use available fats as a secondary energy source. Unlike carbs, our fat stores are a more sustainable, slow releasing energy source, meaning we can utilise the source for a longer amount of time. Getting the body used to burning fat as an energy source is a great way to see weight loss results as well as having a longer sustained energy source throughout the day.
Some Wholefood Fat Ideas: Meat Proteins, Dairy, Nuts, Seeds, Nut Butters, Avocados & Oils.
PROTEIN
Protein is our most important macronutrient. Like Fats, it's a slow released energy, yet is high in demand to be absorbed for our organ health and muscle resynthesis. Regardless of how you eat or lifestyle choice, protein is an essential for anyone.
Although we don’t rely on protein as a readily available energy source; enough protein in the body is essential for the release of various amino acids, which play their role in ensuring the body performs in perfect health (circulation, blood flow, repair etc.). Protein helps us keep fuller for longer, regulates our bodies blood sugar level and helps the release of lipids (fats) in a sustained energy release.
Some Wholefood Protein Ideas: Animal meats, Dairy, Yoghurt, Tofu, Quinoa, Nuts and Seeds, various plant based sources and legumes.
So the question ultimately becomes, what do I eat?
The answer can simply be, balance is the key. We encourage everyone to eat a variety of foods that come from a wholefoods base (No processed food).
Ultimately our vegetables are packed with our vitamins and minerals which are vital for so much in protecting our body from sickness. Our proteins and fats are essential for repair and our Carbohydrates in ensuring we grow.
Nutrition is not a 'one shape fits all' approach, it's very individuals to you, your budget, your schedule and your health. So if you're unsure, ask one of the Day1 Team!
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