THE IMPORTANCE OF NUTRITION
Proper nutrition leads to better performance. Provide your body with the right macro and micro nutrients, and you’ll be rewarded with higher energy, more muscle , faster recovery and a strong immune system. Eating a balanced diet is also vital for good health and wellbeing.
WHAT IS PROTEIN?
Protein is a Macronutrient that is commonly found in animal products such as meat and dairy products, but is also found is certain nuts and legumes. Protein sources also include supplement forms such as Whey Protein, which can assist in increasing protein intake in a functional way. As a Macronutrient, Protein is responsible delivering calories (or energy) to the body. It is comprised of amino acids, which are also known as the building blocks of the human body.
What is Protein’s role in the body?
Besides Protein’s role to provide energy to the body, it is also responsible for the building and repairing of muscle and tissues. Proteins can also play a role in hormone and enzyme production as well as assist the immune system in fighting off infection.
WHAT ARE CARBOHYDRATES?
Carbohydrates are the sugars, starches and fibres that are found in grains, fruits, vegetables and milk products, however the amount often varies. There are two different types of Carbohydrates, known as Simple Carbohydrates and Complex Carbohydrates. Simple Carbohydrates are generally broken down quickly by the body and therefore raise blood sugar levels quickly, whereas Complex carbohydrates are broken down more slowly than simple carbs and will raise sugar levels more slowly. This is also referred to as low GI and high GI, with low GI being absorbed more slowly than high GI sources and having less effect on the blood sugar levels.
What is Carbohydrates role in the Body?
Carbohydrates, also a Macronutrient, provide the body with energy, in the form of glycogen. Fibre, contained in carbohydrates, is also important for gut health.
WHAT IS FAT?
Fat is the final Macronutrient. There are different types of fat such as saturated fats, unsaturated fats and trans fats, each serving a different function and level of importance. Unsaturated fats are broken down into two categories, namely Monounsaturated Fat and Polyunsaturated Fat. These are fats that are generally liquid at room temperature and are predominantly found in plant foods. Saturated fats are mainly found in animal sources, however they can also be found in various plant sources as well. Trans fat, also known as trans fatty acids, are often man-made fats but can also be found naturally in smaller amounts in certain foods.
What is Fats role in the Body?
The different fats have different roles in the body, often contributing to good brain and body health. The Unsaturated fat sources are more commonly associated with good health benefits, with Trans fats being the worst of fats; that should be avoided where possible. Fat is also used as a source of energy to the body. They are also important for organ protection and body temperature.
