All You Ever Wanted to Know About Macromolecules

What is a macromolecule? A macromolecule is a very large, complex molecule. They are derived from plants and animals only. In terms of nutrition, there are three necessary in every diet: Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Fats.

Carbohydrate:

-225-325 grams a day

- 45-65% of daily calories should come from carbs

-Serves as body's main energy source and include 

complex (take longer to use) and simple (immediate use) carbs

-Complex sources include potatoes, peas, and corn. 

-Simple sources include fruit, milk, sugars, sweets. 

Protein: 

-50-175 grams a day

-10-35% of total daily calories should come from protein

-Essential for skin, bone, muscle, blood, and organ tissue production and health. Serves as a hormone and enzyme

 stabilizer.

-Sources of protein include beans, vegetables, meat, dairy, nuts, seeds.

Fats:

-44 to 78 grams a day

-20 to 35 % of daily calories should be from fats

-Help absorb essential vitamins, maintain structure/function of cell membranes, keep immune system working. Limit saturated and trans fats which clog arteries and lead to other health problems. 

-Good fat sources include nuts, olives, and avocados.