Macronutrients
Nutrients are substances found in food that are essential for the body's health. Macronutrients are the nutrients that the body requires in larger quantities.
Carbohydrates
Types:
Simple carbohydrates/ sugars
Monosaccharides (made up of 1sugar molecule): glucose, fructose, galactose
Disaccharides (made up of 2 sugar molecules): lactose, maltose, sucrose
Complex carbohydrates/ starches and fibers
Oligosaccharides (made up of 3-10 linked sugars)
Polysaccharides (made up of 10+linked sugars)
Primary sources of energy for our bodies
One gram of carbohydrate provides 4 calories
Food sources: bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, corn, etc.
2. Fats
Types:
Saturated fats:
Solid at room temperature
Raise good and bad cholesterol levels
Overconsumption increases the risk of heart issues
Unsaturated fats:
Liquid at room temperature
Lower bad cholesterol levels and can increase good cholesterol levels
Beneficial to health when consumed in moderate amounts
Trans fats:
Semi-solid at room temperature
Most are created artificially
Raise bad cholesterol levels and lower good cholesterol levels
Extremely harmful to health and can result in heart problems
Functions:
Provide the body with energy
Protect and insulate the body and its organs
Store and transport vitamins
One gram of fat provides 9 calories
Food sources: butter, cheese, olive oil, avocados, nuts, margarine, etc.
3. Proteins
Made up of amino acids
Functions:
Provide the body with energy
Provide structural support
Regulate bodily processes
Transport Substances
Repair and replace damaged cells
One gram of protein provides 4 calories
Food Sources: eggs, meat, dairy products, beans, fish, nuts, etc.
Written by Thulashini
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