![]() Micronutrients support growth, brain development, immune function, and energy metabolism ( 8). Some vitamins - D, K, B12, and biotin - can be produced by your body, but not always in adequate amounts. There are 13 essential vitamins and 13 essential minerals, each of which has specific, sometimes overlapping functions.Īs a reminder, essential means that you have to get those nutrients from your diet. Micronutrients serve different roles in your body than macronutrients. However, that doesn’t mean that micronutrients are less important. Macronutrients are different from micronutrients, which include vitamins and minerals.įirst, macronutrients are needed in relatively larger amounts than micronutrients. Carbs are the main energy source, proteins help build and repair tissues, and fats insulate organs and make up cell membranes. Fat insulates and protects your organs.ĭuring digestion, macronutrients are broken down into smaller parts that are used for specific functions. Lipids help transport and promote the absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins K, E, D, and A. Fat stored around your body serves as an energy reserve that can be used during periods during which you eat fewer calories than you burn. Lipids are an essential component of cell membranes. Some of the main functions of lipids, or fats, include ( 5, 7): Without the right amino acids, your body cannot create enzymes and hormones.įats are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol ( 5, 7). Amino acids help maintain a proper acid-base balance within your body. Amino acids provide structure to your body’s cell membranes, organs, hair, skin, and nails. They’re also used to build and repair tissues and muscles. Amino acids help create new proteins within your body. Some of the main uses of amino acids from protein include ( 5, 6): Twenty amino acids have important functions in your body, 9 of which are essential and must be obtained from foods ( 5, 6). Fiber fills you up after eating and keeps you feeling full for longer. Glucose is stored as glycogen in your muscles and liver for later use when you need energy, for example after a longer period of fasting. Glucose is the preferred energy source for your brain, central nervous system, and red blood cells. Some of the main functions of carbs include ( 3, 5): Still, some fiber is fermented by bacteria in your colon ( 3, 5). This doesn’t apply to dietary fiber, a type of carbohydrate that isn’t broken down and passes through your body undigested. Most carbs are broken down into glucose, or sugar molecules. These parts are then used for bodily functions like energy production, muscle building, and giving structure to cells. Protein-rich foods include eggs, meat, fish, and soy products, while high fat foods include avocados, nuts, seeds, cooking oils, and fatty fish.Įach macronutrient has specific functions in your body.ĭuring digestion, they’re broken down into smaller parts. ![]() Dairy products: full fat yogurt and cheeseĬarbs are primarily found in grains, fruits, beans, and starchy vegetables.Soy products: tofu, edamame, and tempeh.Nuts and seeds: almonds and pumpkin seeds.Dairy products: milk, yogurt, and cheese.Beans and legumes: black beans, lentils, and chickpeas. ![]() ![]()
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