Macro- and Micronutrients: Part 1

In last month’s blog there was mention of the macro- and micronutrients in food. But what is a macronutrient and a micronutrient?

This will be a 2-part blog talking about macro and micro nutrients.

Starting with a Macronutrient, this by definition is: “a type of food (e.g. carbohydrates, fats or proteins) required in large amounts in a diet.” Put simply it is the different main food groups that make up a diet, knowing what the different macros are, their function, and how your body reacts to a certain amount of each one, separates a professional from an amateur.

To deepen this concept, I will briefly elaborate what each macro’s function is:

Protein: These are majority of the time your meat products but can also be obtained through lentils, peanuts, etc. The function of proteins in the body is to build and repair muscles and bones and to make hormones and enzymes. This is what builds muscle in the body, because if you don’t consume protein you’ll atrophy and shrink in size. Your body reacts to it by building new muscle when there are micro tears in the muscle after being stimulated in the gym/ after exercise. This is why you see people have protein shakes after going to the gym and the reason they have one.

Fats: This is the most calorie-rich macro nutrient. These are found in foods like nut butters, meats (with the fat still on), chicken skin, and etc. The function of fats in your body is to store unutilized energy, insulate the body, and it protects the vital organs in your body. Fats are important because they keep organ health and brain health up. Your body reacts to this by storing necessary fat in between organs and fueling the brain to keep it healthy as it requires fats to develop and stay healthy.

Carbohydrates: These are food products that contain sugar &/or are starch products. These are foods like white rice, sweet potatoes, apples, and etc. The function of carbohydrates in your body is to give the body energy to function, and when carbohydrates are eaten it is broken down into glycogen and glucose to be used as energy by the body. Your body reacts to this by filling your glycogen stores and is then used later when you perform vigorous movements i.e. exercise.

That is just a short brief overview on the concept of macronutrients.

If you have more questions on this topic feel free to email ronin@macromeals.co.za as well as for personal training &/or meal prep assistance.