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The Difference Between Micro and Macro Nutrients

Generally, a healthy diet is what you need to achieve your health goals. You should consider different things when it comes to how you take care of your body. Even though some factors, such as food allergies, can affect the kinds of food you eat, there are other ways to reach your goals.

Essentially, the nutrients you eat majorly affect how your mind and body function. But what are nutrients, and what food sources provide you with your recommended nutrient intake? Read on to learn more.

What Are Nutrients?

Your body requires a lot of energy to carry out its everyday functions. You need a certain amount of energy to ensure your bodily system is at its best. For instance, you must eat food and drink water for your body to remain healthy.

Different types of food have nutrients that are essential for your body. Food molecules such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and vitamins are these nutrients. Your body needs various amounts of certain nutrients for specific functions.

Why Are Nutrients Important for You?

Nutrients play different roles in your body. The three common reasons why nutrients are essential include providing energy, regulating chemical processes, and building your body structure. These primary functions allow you to live a healthy life, grow and reproduce.

6 Types of Essential Nutrients

Did you know that nutrients are classified as macro and micronutrients? In some cases, your body needs a large amount of nutrients; in other instances, it requires a small amount to function. The following are the primary nutrients your body needs to stay healthy.

Carbohydrates

You find carbohydrates in most foods you eat. For example, fibres, starch, and sugar are common carbohydrates you have every day. Your body needs large amounts of this nutrient to stay healthy.

However, you must ensure that you balance the amount of carbohydrates you eat. Too many carbohydrates increase blood sugar levels, while too few lower blood sugar levels. When your blood sugar levels aren’t balanced, you could be at risk of developing diabetes.

Fat

A managed amount of fat is necessary for a healthy and balanced diet. Your body needs fatty acids to function. And, it needs help to make them.

You should ensure you get the recommended amount of healthy fats. Your diet can include high-fat foods like eggs, cheese, avocados, and full-fat yoghurt. To get the most out of your fatty foods, ensure you pair them with low-fat foods to maintain a balance.

Minerals

Did you know minerals are vital for ensuring your food turns into energy? In addition, your strong bones and teeth rely on the amount of minerals you have. Another critical need for minerals is making hormones which maintain your healthy life and body.

Have you noticed that your doctor sometimes prescribes mineral supplements when you don’t eat the required amount? Minerals play a huge role in your overall well-being. Your immune system becomes weak when it has low amounts of nutrients.

Protein

Increase your protein intake for a healthy immune system and strong muscles. Not only does this nutrient ensure your cells are well-maintained, but it also helps you with food digestion. And, if you’re into physical fitness, protein can help you maintain a healthy weight.

If you’re trying to manage your weight this winter, foods high in protein and fibre help you stay full longer. This nutrient is crucial to build and repair your muscle tissue. In fact, your bones, cartilage and skin need protein as a critical building block.

Vitamins

The fact is that different vitamins play varying functions in your body’s health. For instance, some help you fight infections, while others ensure your blood clots correctly. Usually, doctors recommend a balanced intake of minerals and vitamins.

Enough vitamins ensure you have a strong immune system. The most common vitamin you need to support your immune system is Vitamin C. Other vitamins help you maintain healthy metabolism and strong bones.

Water

Finally, water is the most important source of nutrients that you need every day. Since your body is made up of an estimated 70% of water, it’s crucial to ensure that you have enough of it to stay healthy. Every other nutrient relies on the water in your body to be transported to where it needs to go.

The other essential function of water is balancing your body temperature. This is why you’re advised to drink lots of fluids when sick. Most importantly, water and other healthy drinks help you get rid of toxins in your system when you pee.

What Are Micronutrients?

Sometimes, your body needs specific nutrients in small amounts. However, your body cannot make enough micronutrients on its own.

Eating foods high in minerals and vitamins ensures that your body gets the sufficient amount of micronutrients it needs for maximum health levels.

The following are crucial micronutrients you need to live a healthy life.
  • Vitamin A from fish and leafy vegetables.
  • Iodine in salt.
  • Vitamin D from milk.
  • Zinc supplements.
  • Folate is found in eggs, dairy products, and meat.
  • Iron is oats and leafy vegetables or supplements.

What Are Macronutrients?

On the other hand, your body needs nutrients in more significant amounts. These nutrients play a massive role in improving your day-to-day energy requirements. Here are some essential macronutrients your body needs to stay healthy.

  • Carbohydrates are found in whole grains, starchy vegetables, and dairy products.
  • Protein from red meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood.
  • Fat is found in avocados, fatty fish, and full-fat dairy products.

In summary, nutrients are essential for your health. You must ensure a balanced diet to get the most of what you need from your food. If you don’t know where to start, you’re not alone.

You can use this guide for practical tips. Most importantly, you can visit our website  to learn more about ways to keep your health at optimal levels.

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