What are Micros and Macros in Nutrition?
I have had the opportunity to work in nutrition clinics and hospital wards to provide nutrition counseling and nutrition interventions to patients suffering from various medical conditions. What comes up most is the lack of awareness of the foods we consume in our own homes and what they do for our bodies, mind, and health in the long run.
My goal is to provide some basic knowledge on the foods available locally in Kenya and their benefits in two broad categories; macronutrients and micronutrients. While these nutrients are needed is larger amounts compared to micronutrients, excessive consumption may lead to excessive weight gain and increase the risk of lifestyle diseases.
Carbohydrates are the main sources of energy derived from starchy tubers, cereals, and cereal products.
Proteins are the main body-building foods derived from animal products such as eggs, poultry, meat, dairy, and fish as well as from plant sources such as legumes.
Lastly is the fats and oils that enable absorption and transport of fat-soluble
vitamins. Sources include fatty fish, nuts and seeds, plant oils, avocado, and coconut.
Micronutrients are organic substances derived largely from fruits and vegetables. Ask any person what healthy eating is about and they will most likely tell you that eating more fruits and vegetables is good for you. So why do they always come up in the topic of healthy eating. They are needed for building body tissues, metabolizing food, preventing deficiency diseases, promoting healing and overall health. Without the vitamins, the human body cannot utilize other nutrients.
Water; Last but definitely not least is the importance of taking more than two liters of water in the course of your day. This may seem like an easy task but most people struggle to achieve it. Take control and make water your drink of choice.
Most people eat to survive, merely because it is mealtime, but with all the options and recipes available, I encourage you to try new ways of food preparation, textures, and of course make your plate colorful. Healthy eating should be enjoyable.
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