Role of Protein and Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates and proteins are vital for good health. Each of these nutrients play a unique role in building and maintaining a healthy body, so any diet that deprives you of either over an extended period of time can jeopardize your health.

Let's start by examining the proteins. Proteins are the raw material that the body uses to make and maintain healthy muscles, bones, skin and hair. Without a continuous supply of this nutrient gradually lose muscle mass, weaken and lose its ability to fight disease and infection.

The average adult needs about 60-80 grams of protein a day. That may seem like a lot, but not when you consider that 80 grams of meat (the size of a deck of cards) provides 21 grams of protein. The best sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, milk, cheese and legumes (beans, peanuts, peas and foods made from soy). Some vegetables and grains contain protein, but not the same quality as the main sources I mentioned.

Now let's look at carbohydrates. Your brain, heart and kidneys rely on carbohydrates for energy to run correctly. If your diet does not include enough carbohydrates your body take extreme measures to get the energy they need action, and try to chemically break down the protein you eat until proteins act as carbohydrates. Such reactions can cause loss of muscle mass and put additional pressure on the kidneys.

Many people have the false impression that carbohydrates are fattening, perhaps because carbohydrates are often associated with low-fat crackers, cookies and chips that can be added kilos if not consumed in moderation. Low-fat snacks are usually high in calories, which can cause weight gain when snacks are consumed in large portions. how many carbs in a low carb diet.

High-carbohydrate foods are available for those wishing to lose weight or maintain a healthy and balanced diet. In general, adults should get 40 percent to 60 percent of their daily calories from carbohydrates. Good choices include minimally processed, such as oatmeal, brown rice and whole grain bread products. Look for the words "whole grain" among the main ingredients on packages of bread. Breads that do not carry this label are highly processed and do not provide your body the same quality of nutrition.

When it comes to weight loss, your body can not differentiate between consumed calories as carbohydrates and calories consumed as protein. If you eat less calories than you burn through your daily activities, you will lose weight, regardless of the type of food you eat. Following a weight loss plan that promotes a balanced diet and a variety of food choices will allow you to stay healthy and full of energy and avoid you get bored and quit your goal of losing weight.