The nutrients our bodies need to thrive can be sorted into two categories: macro and micronutrients. Keep reading to understand the difference between them.
What are Macronutrients?
These are nutrients that your body needs in large amounts to sustain itself and carry out important bodily functions.
“Macro” means large so managing your macronutrient intake tends to have a huge impacts on the body.
There are roughly three types of macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates
- Proteins
- Fats
What are Micronutrients?
Your body needs these nutrients in smaller amounts for its survival. This is why they’re referred to as “micro”.
The human body does not naturally produce micronutrients, so you need to obtain them from external sources such as foods and supplements.
Micronutrients can roughly be classified into two categories:
- Vitamins
- Minerals
The Primary Macros
Each macronutrient affects your body in a different way. You need to understand their roles to ensure that your macronutrient intake is the right amount.
The macronutrient distribution ranges are 10-35% of your daily calories from protein, 20-35% from fats, and 45-65% from carbs.
Carbohydrates
These are the body’s primary preference for energy. It is easier for your body to convert carbohydrates immediately for fuel than fat. This energy helps your entire body to function.
Carbs are essential for the body’s maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels and digestive functions.*
Foods that contain carbohydrates are:
- Bread
- Cereal
- Pasta
- Rice
- Potatoes
Protein
Proteins supply the body with amino acids. These amino acids are the building blocks for muscle and other essential body structures such as the brain, blood, nervous system, hair, and skin.
Protein is also necessary for transporting oxygen and other important nutrients.
When the body is deficient of carbs or glucose, it enters a state of reverse-processing protein (gluconeogenesis) for energy.
Foods that contain protein are:
- Meat
- Eggs
- Beans
- Tofu
- Fish
Fats
Dietary fat plays a crucial role in your body. It is an important energy source for when you are calorie deprived. It also helps with proper cell function, protection of vital organs and insulation.*
Foods that contain fat are:
- Olive oil
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Avocado
- Fatty fish
- Yogurt
Types of Micronutrients
Though they are needed in small amounts, micronutrients play a key role in human development and well-being. They help regulate metabolism, heartbeat, bone density, and cellular pH.*
A lack of it may cause children to have stunted growth and be immuno-compromised. They can contract diseases such as scurvy (lack of Vitamin C), rickets (lack of Vitamin D), and osteoporosis (lack of calcium).*
Vitamins
These are organic compounds manufactured by plants and animals. They can be broken down by heat, air, or acid.
They are available in two forms - water-soluble and fat-soluble.
Water-soluble vitamins are lost easily through bodily fluids so they must be replaced daily.
The B-complex vitamins and vitamin C fall under this category.
Fat soluble vitamins like A, D, E and K accumulate within the body and are not required daily.
Minerals
Minerals are inorganic compounds that exist in soil and water. They cannot be broken down.
They are available in two forms - macrominerals and microminerals
Macrominerals are required in larger amounts. They are:
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Phosphorus
- Magnesium
Microminerals are required in traces. They are:
- Iron
- Zinc
- Copper
- Fluoride
- Iodine
We should all be mindful in making sure we are getting enough macro and micronutrients. Superfood powders and superfood capsules can help our bodies get more nutrients and help us FeelGood! Shop our many products at FeelGoodSuperfoods.com!
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.