Macro and Micronutrients

Macro and Micronutrients play a vital role in keeping the body healthy.   Macro nutrients consist of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. 



 

 



Macronutrients are responsible for giving the body energy and muscle building. Proteins are consider the building blocks of muscle.   Bodybuilders eat a diet high in protein when they are trying to increase size in muscle and lower body fat.  Protein is found in fish, eggs, poultry, red meats and dairy.  Fats are the most concentrated source of energy, but fats are high in calories and therefore can cause one to be overweight if one consumes to much the excess energy because it will be stored as fat.  Fats are butter and oils.  "Dietary fats is important as an energy source...in the manufacture and balance of hormones, in the formation of our cell membranes, in the formation of our brains and nervous systems and in the transport of the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K..." (Berardi & Andrews, (2009).  "Carbohydrates are ideal nutrients to meet your body's energy needs, to feed your brain and nervous system, to keep your digestive system fit, and within calorie limits, to help keep your body lean" (Sizer & Whitney, 2013).  Carbohydrates are whole grains, starchy vegetables, and fruits. 
Consuming a variety of the macronutrients means that your body will consume the micronutrients it needs.   Micronutrients consist of vitamins and minerals. 


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Vitamins are responsible for regulating the body systems to keep everything functioning normally and each vitamin has a specific job that it does.  For example, Vitamin D is responsible for making your bones strong and vitamin C is responsible for keeping your immune system healthy. 
Minerals have important jobs to do in your body too, but to much of them can actually cause harm.  For instance, sodium in small amounts is beneficial but consuming to much sodium can cause high blood pressure leading to heart attack.  If the body does not have enough minerals it can suffer too. For example, to little iron in the body will cause fatigue.  By providing variety in the diet, one can make sure they are consuming the vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy.  
References

Berardi, J., & Andrews, R. (2009). Special Needs. Nutition: The Complee Guide (). Carpinteria: Internationa SportSciences Associaion.

Sizer, F. & Whitney, E. (2013).  Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies (13th ed.).  Mason, OH: Cengage Learning

. (n.d.). . Retrieved June 18, 2014, from http://journeyoflight79.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/vitamin.jpg