Macros and Micros explained

MACROS Macros, a term synonymous with diets is often misunderstood or ambiguous. Macros or Macronutrients is simply the term used to classify Protein, Fat and Carbohydrate. When thinking about your nutrition a good place to start is to look at the percentage of daily energy intake coming from each of these three macronutrients. A 40-30-30 breakdown [40% Carbohydrate, 30% Protein and 30% Fat] or Zone Diet, has proven effective in increasing lean muscle mass and reducing body fat percentage. Body type and training goals can affect this but as a general guide this breakdown will work for most people. Whilst eating fresh, whole foods are the best way to get macronutrients in your diet, supplements can help fill gaps in a healthy nutrition plan. MICROS [caption id="attachment_29" align="alignright" width="300"] ACTV Online Nutrition[/caption] Micros or Micronutrients is a term used to classify other essential nutrients we consume. Micronutrients are predominately vitamins and minerals. Examples of micronutrients include calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, selenium, sodium, zinc, vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E, and K. Micronutrients regulate many of the body’s functions and play an extremely important role in keeping you healthy. Most micronutrients can only be consumed and not made by the body itself. As with macronutrients, eating fresh, whole foods of many different colours and varieties is the best way to get the optimal micronutrients in your diet. Micronutrient deficiencies normally arise if you have followed a restrictive diet (e.g. Ketogenic Diet, Ornish Diet) for extended periods.