Macronutrients vs. Micronutrients

       Macronutrients and Micronutrients are both needed by the body to be healthy. So what are they? What do these nutrients do? First, let's break them down so they are more easily understood. We know nutrients is what our body needs for growth and maintenance of itself. Macronutrients are referencing large amounts of this nutrient while Micronutrient refers to small amounts. Macronutrients are the Carbohydrates, Proteins, and fats we consume. Micronutrients are the vitamins and minerals we extract from the foods we eat but may need to be supplemented if we do not get the proper daily amount. (Washington State University. (n.d.). Retrieved September 12, 2016)

            Carbohydrates, Proteins, and fats are macronutrients as stated above and our body needs a large amount of them daily to operate efficiently. Carbohydrates can be found in grains, dairy, and fruit. The role of these Carbohydrates is to fuel the body for exercise, spare protein for muscle mass, and fuel the central nervous system. Proteins can be found in meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and legumes. Proteins help the tissue structure, regulate metabolism, part of cell plasma membranes, and helps maintain a neutral environment within our bodies. Fats can be found in oils, nuts, seeds, meat, dairy, and fish. It reserves energy, provides insulation, protects organs, and transport fat-soluble vitamins. (Washington State University. (n.d.). Retrieved September 12, 2016)

            Micronutrients are made up of water soluble vitamins, fat soluble, minerals, and water. Micronutrients help build, grow, and maintain body tissues like developing the nervous system, healthy skin and hair, develops eye vision, moistens tissues, and lubricants joints. These nutrients can be found in red meats, fruits, dark green vegetables, fish, and dairy products. (Washington State University. (n.d.). Retrieved September 12, 2016) While we may not get a good daily amount of these nutrients it is important to incorporate a supplemental vitamin.

Reference:

Washington State University. (n.d.). Retrieved September 12, 2016, from http://mynutrition.wsu.edu/nutrition-basics/