A Simple Breakdown Of Carbs, Proteins And Fats!

FAT

Fats have had a bad wrap in the past and new studies are proving and providing evidence to show this is not the case, though it is important to remember not all fats are created equal. GOOD fats are essential for the human body and have to be acquired through nutrition. Good fats are required by the brain, joints, skin and many other parts in the body as they help to regulate blood pressure, enhance organ function, enhance brain function, contribute to cellular health and help absorb the fat soluble vitamins A,D,E and K. 

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• There are four types of dietary fats which are monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, saturated and trans fats. Trans fats are negative fats and have no nutrition value but can cause havoc in the body.

• Fats are broken down much slower than the other macronutrients, keeping you fuller for longer and maintaining a healthy level of sugars and insulin in the bloodstream.

• Excess fat is stored in your body's adipose cells (fat cells) in the body in the form of triglycerides for later use. These cells can expand and shrink depending on how full they get.

  
  

  

  
  

PROTEIN

Protein is an important component of every cell in the human body. When consumed, proteins are broken down into Amino acids. There are 20 types of amino acids with each one having a distinct structure and role in the body. Out of these 20 Amino acids 9 are considered essential as the body cannot produce them and are required through diet.

• The body does not store protein for later use and has no reservoir to draw from when more is needed, food is our main source. Excess protein in your diet is stored as fat or converted into glucose.

• Your body requires protein to build and repair tissue, make enzymes, produce hormones, produce chemicals in the body as well as being building blocks of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood.

CARBOHYDRATES

Carbohydrates are the sugars, starches and fibre found in fruit, grains, vegetables and milk. Once consumed they are broken down into glucose and are the body's main fuel source when available, helping fuel your brain, kidneys, heart muscles, and central nervous system. There are 2 main forms known as Simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates.

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• Simple carbs are broken down straight away( high G.I ), normally nutrient deficient and normally known as bad carbs ( refined sugars, processed foods) 

• Complex carbs take longer to break down, keeping you full longer ( low G.I ), normally are rich in nutrients and are a more sustained way of burning fuel then simple carbs

• Excess carbs are stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles for later use, once glycogen stores are full, then it is converted and stored in the fat cells.

• Fibre is a special type of carb that helps promote good digestive health and may lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes and as well as helping regulate the body's use of sugars, helping to keep hunger and blood sugar in check.