As you may already know, food provides 3 main macronutrients that have a caloric value:
- Protein (4 calories per gram)
- Fats (9 calories per gram)
- Carbohydrates (4 calories per gram)
Protein is built up of amino acids. There are 20 amino acids in total that the body uses, 9 of which are essential (the body can’t produce them).
This nutrient is important, because technically, your entire body is made up of protein and it is needed to sustain the overall healthy functioning of the organism.
Fat on the other hand provides fatty acids, some of which are essential and involved in a variety of processes.
A deficit of fat may lead to hormonal disbalances, tiredness and poor nutrient absorption.
Carbohydrates are not really essential, but they are the quickest and easiest source of energy for the body to use.
For the goal of optimal workout performance, carbohydrates are a crucial aspect.
