Nutrition – Part 5

There are so many different diets that are on the market today.  In my profession I hear about a variety of things that people are trying to do to get the body they want.  It is important to not follow a diet that you can't maintain, otherwise, once the diet is over your improvements may be lost.  I like to refer to proper eating habits as a lifestyle change.  Many diets that help you get those fast results don't provide a good balance of proteins, carbs, and fats.  All three of these sources play key roles in how our body properly functions on a daily basis.  When the body receives sufficient quantities of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, it will carry out its specified functions, you will make improvements, and most importantly, maintain them. 

Protein has four calories per gram. Protein sources come from things like whey, meats, and soy.  Our body does three major things with calories from proteins - it puts protein in fat stores, uses proteins as a energy source and uses proteins to carry out functions vital to life. Protein also works for replacement of old cells, building muscles, organs, blood, nails, hair, skin, and tissues. Protein also takes part in hormone, antibodies, and enzyme formation. 

Carbohydrates have four calories per gram as well, and there are complex carbohydrates and simple carbohydrates.  A good source of a complex carb would be whole breads, rice, and vegetables.  A simple carbohydrate source could be a piece of fruit or some juice.  It is the body's number one energy source. The brain and nervous system run directly off glucose. If you want to have adequate amounts of energy and get a great workout, eat carbohydrates regardless of what you may have heard.  Eating complex carbohydrates for breakfast is much better then simple carb source because of the sugar. 

Fat has nine calories per gram and it accomplishes multiple things.   Fat gives us energy for activities, surrounds and protects vital organs, takes part in cellular function and structure, provides longer lasting feeling of satiety, regulates hormonal production, balances body temperatures, and transport fat soluble vitamins.