Understanding Macronutrients

 Carbohydrates, Protein, and Fats 

Eating a balanced diet is essential in optimizing nutritional care. A well-balanced diet should maintain a balanced glucose level (blood sugar), which can be consumed through three meals per day, limiting snacking, and including a protein, carbohydrate and fat source. 

Carbohydrates are your body's main source of energy. They break down into glucose, which fuel the body and brain. Carbohydrates come in two forms: simple and complex. 

• Simple carbs are mostly known as simple sugars. They are found in processed food such as: candy, soda, cakes, and other high-sugar products. They have little to no nutritional value, but can spike your blood glucose. 
• Complex carbs include whole grains, whole fruits and veggies. Most complex carbs include dietary fiber, which aids in prolonging hunger & reducing the risk of chronic diseases. 

I recommend a diet high in complex carbs, full of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Try to limit highly-processed foods & flour products to keep your immune system running at full speed! 

Protein is the structural component of your body or known as "building blocks." Protein is an essential component of your muscle, skin, and bones. Their amino acid composition serves as an energy source for your body. They have the ability to regulate hormones, enzymes, and repair tissues. A diet high in protein is critical for your body during periods of stress or illness. 

Fats are necessary in your diet, but the type of fats you are eating is critical. Many fats are linked to increasing inflammation & may be connected to increased development of certain cancers or chronic disease. There are two groups of fats known as "good" (polyunsaturated, monounsaturated, and unsaturated fats) and "bad" fats (trans and saturated fats). 

• Saturated fats are most commonly found in animals products such as beef, pork, poultry, and dairy products. Swap your meat choices for leans meats, skinless poultry, and lower dat dairy products. Or you can try Meatless Mondays like our family to give your body a break from meat! (*Read labels on dairy products - sometimes low-fat is loaded with sugar!!) 
• Trans fatty acids are hydrogenated oils found in butter, baked goods, processed foods, and fried foods. Trans fats should be avoided & limited to a minimum in your diet. 
• A good type of fat is unsaturated fats. This fat is commonly found in nuts, avocados, olive oil, and fish. Diets high in unsaturated fats can be preventative against chronic disease and help fight cancer.