Macronutrient Cheat Sheet; Overview

A basic nutrition principle, long before counting “macros” was cool, is the concept of macronutrients in our diet. Three main categories of carbohydrates, protein and fats comprise our macronutrients. Micronutrients refers to the vitamins and minerals that we obtain from food.

Often in clinic, I find that patients are not eating balanced meals, meaning a meal should contain all three macronutrients (carb, protein, and fat) for optimal absorption and energy needs. Certain circumstances, for example before a big workout or athletic event, may require a carbohydrate-only snack for quick energy. In general, however, it is best to include each of these three in every meal and snack. Incorporating a fat and protein with a carbohydrate will help slow the digestion, so rather than a spike and fall in blood sugar levels, you will have a more sustained, slow rise and fall, which helps to keep you full and maintain energy levels for longer. It also allows each of these nutrients to do it’s designated job. More on each macronutrients specific and important function in the body to come!