Essential Nutrients to Maximize Your Health

Essential nutrients usually do not synthesize themselves; instead, they are confined to food compounds. These nutrients are referred to as necessary because the body cannot function normally without them. The most important nutrients that our bodies require on a daily basis include; carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, fats, mineral salts and water. All the above nutrients and mineral are responsible for fighting diseases, growth, and energy supply. The essential nutrients are subdivided into macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients are consumed in large portions which are primary building blocks. Macronutrients mainly include proteins and carbs whereas micronutrients are composed of main vitamins. Continue reading to apprehend the essential nutrients you need daily.

Carbohydrates

image of carbohydrate foodCarbohydrates are also referred to as energy giving food. They are categorized under macronutrients because they are consumed in large proportions. Without carbs, nobody organ can operate, not even the eye. You need energy so that your body organs can perform various tasks. The energy from carbs can be used to perform physiological and physical tasks. Therefore, you require carbs on a daily basis to go about your daily functions. Your brain will not even function generally without energy giving food. Some of the primary sources of carbohydrates include; grains, sugars foods, starchy foods like veggies and many more. Foods that are rich in carbohydrates include; yams, maize, millet, potatoes, etc. I advise you to balance your consumption of carbs because too much of it in the body can cause diabetes and other glucose level related diseases. Consume your carbs daily but ensure you regulate the amount.

Proteins

Another essential macronutrient that your body requires daily is proteins. Proteins are the main foods as are necessary for growth. They are popularly referred to as bodybuilding foods. The main structural component of your body cell is protein. Proteins are also used in repairing of your damaged body tissues. Protein is the major structural component of cells and is responsible for the building and repair of the body usually they are broken down during digestion into amino acids. The main building blocks of proteins are amino acids. When carbs are not sufficient in your body, the body utilizes proteins stored in tissues to make energy. The primary sources of proteins are fat meat, dicotyledonous seeds like beans and other animal products like eggs and milk products. Too much consumption of proteins is dangerous to your body since they cause overweight and heart-related diseases.

Fats

Fats are also energy giving nutrients. Increasing fat consumption can cause you problems that are brought by more proteins and carbs. Vitamins A, D, E, and K are responsible for the production of fats. You should consume like 30-35% of fats in your daily total food intake. Some of the healthy options like omega-3-rich foods contain enough fats. Fish, vegetable-based oils and walnuts are rich in fats. They help your body in growth and development. You should limit your daily fat consumption by reducing fatty meats and foods with real dairy. Better sources of fats are all types of nuts, avocado, and seeds.

Vitamins

Vitamins are essential in our bodies because they help us to fight diseases. For instance, vitamin D helps prevent rickets in kids. Vitamin C is used in the synthesis of collagen. Collagen provides structure to our blood vessels, bones and body ligaments. Vitamins are richly found in citrus fruits, peppers, and strawberries. Pregnant mothers should take more folate to prevent baby defects. To stay healthy and sober, you need to consume fruits and greens daily.

Minerals and Water

Essential minerals that useful in our bodies include; calcium, iron, and zinc. Most minerals are used to boost enzyme working and facilitate production of essential hormones in our bodies. For instance, Sodium helps the body in maintaining fluid volume outside the blood cells. I recommend that you take about 2,500 milligrams of sodium daily. Potassium helps to balance fluid volumes in and out of your blood cells. Potatoes, bananas, tomatoes, salt, and animal blood contains the highest amount of these essential minerals. Water is life, and most of the body is made of water. Make sure you drink more than eight glasses of water every day.