We hear about nutrients all the time when talking about health and wellness, but what’s the deal with micronutrients and macronutrients? Is there a difference? Today we’re breaking it down so that the next time you hear someone says they’re counting their macros, you’ll know exactly what they mean!
In short, our bodies need a wide variety of nutrients to live and thrive. These nutrients can normally always come from the foods we eat and the beverages we drink. While it’s true that we eat food because we enjoy it’s taste, our bodies break that food down and use what nutrients it has in it to survive. Everything we eat or drink, from an apple to a steak to lemonade, contain nutrient components that our body uses – these are called macro and micronutrients.
So what’s the difference between the two? Macronutrients can be classified as carbohydrates, fats and proteins. These specific nutrients provide our bodies with the energy-giving caloric components that we are so familiar with when we talk about counting calories. Micronutrients, on the other hand, are what exist within those larger building blocks. Micronutrients contain vitamins, trace minerals, antioxidants, etc. These micronutrients are vital to the health of our bodies.
While all foods contain fat, protein or carbohydrates, not all foods contain a large amount of micronutrients. This can be damaging if we only consume foods with low amounts of micronutrients. A diet in processed food, for example, is very low in micronutrients. However, a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and unprocessed animal products (organic and grass-fed) is extremely high in micronutrients and therefore more beneficial for the health of our bodies.[1]
Of course eating micronutrient-rich food isn’t always a possibility, which we understand! A great way to add some vital micronutrients to your body is to include some of our Green Superfood into your daily routine! Products like our Amazing Trio contain an abundant source of leafy greens, vitamins and minerals plus 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables for a hefty serving of micronutrients.
[1]“Micronutrients vs. Macronutrients: The Secret to Understanding Food Breakdown”. Bonfire. Web. 19 April 2017.
