Understanding Macronutrients

Understanding Macronutrients

 

Macronutrients play a crucial role in helping individuals achieve their fitness goals. Here is how each macronutrient can contribute to our goals, but first we have to understand better each of those macros.

 

  1. CARBOHYDRATES.-

 

Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy. They are classified as simple or complex based on their chemical structure. Simple carbohydrates include sugars found in fruits, honey, and process foods. Complex carbohydrates include starches found in grains, legumes, and starchy vegetables like potatoes.

Carbohydrates as we mention before are the first source of energy for physical activity and exercise. they fuel your muscles and help maintain glycogen stores, which are important for endurance and high intensity workouts. Consuming an adequate amount of carbohydrates before and after exercise can optimize performance, support muscle recovery, and replenish glycogen stores. Additionally, timing carbohydrates intake during workouts can enhance energy levels and promote better exercise performance.

 

2. PROTEINS.-

 

Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues, such as muscles, skin and organs. They are made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Dietary sources of protein include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts and seeds.

Proteins as we mentioning before are essential for muscle growth, repair, and maintenance. when engaging in strength training or other forms of exercise, consuming enough protein is crucial to support muscle protein synthesis, which helps build and repair muscle tissue. Protein intake also contributes to satiety, helping you feel full and satisfied. Including protein-rich foods in your diet can aid in muscle recovery, promote lean muscle mass development, and support overall body competition goals.

 

3. FATS.-

 

Fats are a concentrated source of energy and are important for hormone production, insulation, cushioning of organs, and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Dietary fats can be found in oils, butter, margarine, nuts, seeds, avocados, fatty fish, and animal products.

Fats although often associated with weight gain, dietary fats are an important macronutrients for fitness goals. Healthy fats provide essential fatty acids. support hormone production. Fats are the most concentrated source of energy in the diet, providing 9 calories per gram. They serve as a backup fuel source to carbohydrates when glucose (form carbohydrates) is not readily available. excess dietary calories, including dose from carbohydrates and proteins, can be converted and stored as fat for future energy needs.