Macronutrients: Is Balance Really Key?

What’s with all of the macro talk lately? “Is it important to track my macronutrients?” “How much of each macronutrient should I eat daily?” 

If you have questions, you are not alone. As a company whose product is macronutrient-dense, we want to clarify some things for you about macronutrients. 

The Three Musketeers

Macronutrients are the larger quantity of nutrients that your body needs for energy. While different diet trends will emphasize certain ratios of macronutrients, our bodies are designed to use all three as fuel: carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Of course, eating these macronutrients in their nutritionally complete form (complex carbs, lean proteins, and healthy fats) is important for proper nutrition. 

Each Plays a Role

Each macronutrient plays an important role in your health. 

Carbohydrates: Carbs often get deemed as the “bad” that “make us fat.” However, carbohydrates are vital for our wellbeing, as they are converted into glucose, our main fuel source. We couldn’t live without carbs! It’s important to opt for complex carbohydrates because simple carbohydrates, like refined sugars, can cause blood sugar spikes. Complex carbohydrates include whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruit. Beans and rice are a great carbohydrate source as the duo is full of fiber and will work to keep you full and satisfied.

Beans and rice are also a form of resistant starch that breaks down differently in the body than other starchy foods, helping to support your mood & metabolism. 

Proteins: Our body uses protein to build and repair tissues. We also use protein to make enzymes, hormones, and other chemicals in our bodies. When choosing proteins, aim for lean options, such as fish, nuts and seeds, legumes, and if you are a meat-eater choose lean meats. Chef Soraya bowls are high in protein, which promotes satiety, preserves lean muscle mass, and stabilizes blood sugar. 

Healthy Fats: While our bodies don’t need an abundance of dietary fat we still need to eat healthy fats regularly. Healthy fats provide us energy, help support cell growth, protect our organs, and help keep the body warm. Fat also helps us absorb certain nutrients and produce important hormones. Nuts and seeds, avocados, coconut, olives, and extra virgin olive oil are all great sources of healthy fat.

The Balancing Act