Macronutrients

Question: What are macronutrients?

Answer: Well first of all, nutrients are substances needed for growth, energy and other body functions. Macronutrients are needed in large quantities (hence the macro!) Macronutrients provide energy. The class of macronutrients includes: Carbohydrates (carbs), Proteins, and Fats. Now, let us explore a little further into the world of macronutrients!


Carbohydrates
















Carbohydrates gives active teens the energy they need to do their daily activities. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of fuel. You can find carbs in many starches, fruit, milk, and even in yogurt. It should be no problem getting a good amount of carbohydrates in your diet because these foods are so delicious! Some may already know that the body can use carbs for energy, but did you know that carbs are needed to help important parts of your body function properly? These body parts include your central nervous system, kidneys, muscles (THAT INCLUDES YOUR HEART!), and your brain.


Proteins




















The second macronutrient that I will inform you about is called protein. Protein is important because its main job is to help the body grow. Active teens will find that their bodies are growing a lot. Protein just helps! It is especially important for teens to get enough protein. Some other things that protein does is: repairs tissue, preserves lean muscle, makes essential hormones and enzymes, and it also is a source of energy when carbohydrates are not available. You can find protein in a lot of foods. Some examples would be: meat, fish, milk, cheese, and soy. You might have noticed that some foods can be a source of carbs and protein. This is great because from some foods you could be getting both protein and carbs! Thus, making it easier to obtain all the macronutrients that an active teen may need!


Fats














Question: Should I never eat any fat?

Answer: You need fats.

Question: Why?

Many people may think that fats should be eliminated from your diet. They may think this because they think that fat just causes weight gain. However, fat is essential for survival! Fat helps you absorb vitamins, maintain cell membranes, helps with growth and development, and it also provides cushioning for your organs! Some foods that you might find fat in are meats, nuts, milk, butter, and oils. There are different kinds of fat. Saturated fat and trans fat can increase your risk of heart disease. Consuming unsaturated fats can decrease the risk of developing heart disease.

Posted By: Kirsten