Calories
Calories are units of energy obtained from food. The number of calories you need depends on various factors such as age, gender, weight, height, and activity level.
Macronutrients
Macronutrients are essential nutrients that your body needs a lot of. There are three main macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates: Our primary energy source, found in foods such as bread, pasta, fruits, and vegetables.
- Proteins: Essential for building and repairing tissues/muscle, found in meat, fish, dairy, and nuts.
- Fats: Importa.nt for energy, insulation, and every day cell function. Found in oils, nuts, seeds, and avocados. While fats have a very bad reputation, they are incredibly important and fatal if you try to achieve lower than a five percent body fat percentage.
Vitamins
These include but are not limited to essential vitamins and minerals which are required but unlike macronutrients they are in needed in much smaller quantities but vital for most of your normal bodily functions. For instance:
- Vitamins: Like A, B, C, D, E, and K, each serving specific roles in the body.
- Minerals: Such as calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium, which are necessary for bone health, oxygen transport, muscle function, and more.
Water
Crucial for survival due to its importance with hydration, nutrient transport, temperature regulation, and overall bodily functions. The right amount of water intake is essential for good health.
Fiber
Found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel health, and can assist in weight management by making you feel fuller for longer.
Processed Foods
These often contain high amounts of added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium, and are typically low in essential nutrients. Limiting processed foods can contribute to a healthier diet.