Our bodies require macronutrients to remain healthy and active. These molecules nourish our body and regulate all the main physiological processes. We consume biomolecules in our daily intake, as they are predominant in various dietary sources.
Nutrients are classified into two major categories: macronutrients and micronutrients. The body requires macronutrients in large quantities to provide energy and function properly.
Furthermore, they provide the body with energy and calories in daily life. The main purpose of taking macronutrients is to maintain a healthy body. Proper intake of macronutrients also controls metabolism, preventing metabolic diseases.
Let us discuss the types of macronutrients and their importance in human physiological processes:
● Carbohydrates
These are the primary energy sources for the body’s tissues and brain. Our body breaks down these into glucose, which flows through the blood and is stored as body fuel. Carbohydrates influence muscle contraction and maintain body temperature during exercise.
● Proteins
Proteins consist of Amino acids, which are the primary component for various bodily functions. They are required for the development, maintenance and repair of body cells and tissues. Proteins play an important role in bodily processes like the immune system, metabolism, and the body's exoskeletal structure.
● Fats
Fat is also an essential component of the body, acting as an energy source. Certain dietary fats are healthier, but they play a key role in our diet. In addition, they help in cell division, storing energy, and absorbing essential vitamins.
Determining the right amount of macronutrients from dietary sources depends on various factors like height, weight, and metabolic rate. However, according to nutritionists, there is a moderate optimum range for macronutrient uptake in our daily diets.
For a healthy diet, the recommended ranges are:
● Carbohydrates: 45-65% of daily calories
● Fats: 20-35% of daily calories
● Proteins: 10-35% of daily calories
Apart from these, the other factors that determine a person’s macronutrient requirement can include the following:
● Fitness goals
● Current Muscle Mass
● Existing health conditions
Most foods contain a combination of macronutrients, but there are other sources which are better than macronutrients.
When considering a planned diet, some people opt for macro diets. Here are some examples of macro diets, that include:
A doctor or nutritionist can guide people on their macronutrient requirements and suggest beneficial diets. Hence, including the right amount of macronutrients in your diet helps you stay fit and active.