Macronutrients Explained: Protein, Carbohydrates and Fats
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The three macronutrients your body needs, made simple.
If you've ever heard someone talk about macros, they are talking about macronutrients.
Macronutrients are nutrients your body needs in larger amounts. They provide energy and play important roles in keeping your body functioning, growing and repairing.
There are three main macronutrients:
Protein. Carbohydrates. Fats.
Let's break them down.
💪 Protein
Think of protein as one of your body's building and repair nutrients.
Your body uses protein to build and maintain muscles, as well as to support tissues and many important processes in the body.
You can find protein in:
• Chicken, beef and other meats
• Fish and seafood
• Eggs
• Milk, yoghurt and cheese
• Tofu and tempeh
• Beans and lentils
• Nuts and seeds
Why does it matter?
Protein can help support muscle maintenance and growth, repair body tissues and contribute to keeping you feeling satisfied after meals.
âš¡ Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are one of your body's main sources of energy.
Your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which can be used as energy by your cells.
You can find carbohydrates in:
• Bread and wraps
• Rice
• Pasta
• Oats and cereals
• Potatoes and sweet potatoes
• Fruit
• Vegetables
• Beans and lentils
And no, carbohydrates are not the enemy.
Your body needs them, particularly for energy. The type and amount that works best for you depends on your individual needs, lifestyle and goals.
🥑 Fats
Fats often get a bad reputation, but your body needs fat too.
Fats provide energy and help support important functions including cell structure, hormone production and the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K.
You can find fats in:
• Avocado
• Nuts and seeds
• Olive oil
• Eggs
• Dairy
• Fatty fish
The type of fat matters, so including a variety of nutritious fat sources in your diet is important.
So, do you need all three?
Yes.
Protein, carbohydrates and fats all have different jobs, and your body needs each of them.
A balanced diet isn't about choosing one over another.
It's about finding the right balance for your body, your lifestyle and your goals.
And remember, you don't need to become a nutrition expert overnight.
Start by understanding the basics.
Learn what your body needs.
Make informed choices.
Keep it simple.
That's nutrition, the Apuki way. 🧡