The etymological origin of the term macronutrients we have to establish that it is found in Latin. And it is the result of the sum of several lexical components of said language:
-The compositional element “macro-”, which can be translated as “large”.
-The verb “nutrire”, which means “to feed”.
-The suffix “-nte”.
The concept of macronutrient is not part of the dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy ( RAE ). The term, in any case, is frequently used to refer to one of the large groups into which nutrients can be divided (the substances that nourish).
Macronutrients are those elements that provide energy to the body. These are proteins , carbohydrates and lipids . Micronutrients , meanwhile, allow the development of metabolic processes, prevent infections and contribute to growth. In this group we find vitamins and mineral salts .
Exactly the most important micronutrients are calcium, vitamin D, iron, magnesium and also vitamin C. All of them reduce fatigue, strengthen the immune system and promote the correct development of teeth and bones.
Among the foods rich in micronutrients we have to highlight some such as lentils, cheese, avocado, almonds, parsley or sardines. However, so are eggs, milk, salt, liver or beets, for example.
The body requires a greater amount of macronutrients than micronutrients. This is because, while micronutrients are necessary for maintaining health, they do not produce energy like macronutrients.
That is why a balanced diet must include an adequate level of proteins (provided by meats, dairy products, legumes, cereals and other foods), carbohydrates (also called carbohydrates or carbohydrates , they can be monosaccharides, polysaccharides or oligosaccharides) and lipids ( fats , whether cholesterol, phospholipids or triglycerides). A nutritionist is the specialist who must indicate, according to each individual case, what is the appropriate diet and the best way to satisfy the organic requirements of macronutrients.
In addition to providing energy, it is considered necessary to include macronutrients considerably in any diet due to other benefits they provide. Specifically, among the most significant are the following:
-They contribute to the growth and maintenance of muscles and nerves.
-They considerably strengthen the immune system. This means that the body is prepared to face diseases and infections.
-They help regulate body temperature.
Oily fish , olive oil , shellfish , nuts , milk , vegetables and fruits are among the foods rich in macronutrients. It is important to mention that, although it is not a protein, a carbohydrate or a lipid, water is usually mentioned as a macronutrient due to its importance for the body.
In the same way, we cannot ignore that there are another series of foods that are considered to be very rich in macronutrients. We are referring to some such as legumes, whole grain products, soy, eggs and even dairy products.