How To Create The Perfect Meal
When you want to create the perfect meal, keep it simple. The human body needs protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Select a whole food from each category and voila you have a well balanced healthy meal to fuel your body. Understanding the role of the above macro-nutrients in the body may help clarify any confusion about why they are necessary.
Protein- In terms of overall health and function of the human body, protein is essential for building and repairing. It is one of the most important substances in our body and found in every living cell. As a matter of fact, it does most of the work in the cells. Because the body uses it for many vital functions, we need to replace it as it is depleted. We do this by regularly eating foods with protein.
Carbohydrates- Making energy isn’t the only thing your body does with carbohydrates. It also regulates the amount of sugar circulating in your blood. Why do carbs have a bad reputation for making us fat? If your diet provides more carb calories than your body needs to complete its regular functions, then it will be converted to fat. All carbs are NOT created equal. See below for examples of good, quality carbs.
Fat- Absolutely essential for optimal health, our bodies need fat to function properly. Healthy fats serve as an energy source especially effective over longer periods of time. The health of our cells depend on lipid (cholesterol fat) molecules to regulate nutrients entering and waste leaving each cell. Obtaining sufficient healthy fat in the diet, is one of the keys to good health and wellness.
A healthy diet is important for fitness results
To create the perfect meal, be sure one food from each of the above groups makes its way onto your plate. Below are some examples of each of the three macro-nutrients.
- Protein- chicken, shrimp, pork, turkey, beef, eggs and salmon
- Carbohydrates- all fruits and vegetables, quinoa, sweet potato and squash
- Fat- extra virgin olive oil, full fat coconut milk, olives, avocado, all nuts & seeds
When planning and preparing nutritious meals, think simplicity! Be sure to grab a food from each of the three above categories. These macro-nutrients work in harmony to provide the body with everything it needs to function optimally. Stay tuned for more specifics about how to portion your ingredients!