Macronutrients are nutrients that the body needs in large amounts to function properly. They include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy, while proteins are needed for growth and repair. Fats are also necessary for the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals.
Meat and meat products (beef, chicken, lamb, pork or kangaroo)
Macronutrients are the nutrients that our bodies require in large amounts. They include carbohydrates, fats, proteins and water. Meat and meat products are an excellent source of protein, providing all the essential amino acids our bodies need for growth and repair. They also contain a range of other nutrients including iron, zinc and vitamin B12.
- Beef is a good source of protein, iron, zinc and vitamin B12. It is also a rich source of other nutrients including niacin, selenium and phosphorus.
- Chicken is a leaner alternative to beef and is also a good source of protein as well as vitamins B6 and B12.
- Lamb is another rich source of protein which also contains high levels of zinc and iron.
- Pork contains similar levels of nutrients to chicken but with higher levels of fat.
- Kangaroo meat is very lean with high levels of protein as well as being a good source of iron, zinc and vitamin B12.
When choosing meat or meat products it is important to consider the fat content as this can vary considerably between different types (for example bacon vs lamb chops). Leaner cuts are generally healthier choices but even these can be high in saturated fat so it’s important not to over do it! Trimming visible fat off before cooking can help reduce the saturated fat content further. Another way to reduce the saturated fat content in your diet is to choose leaner cuts such as chicken breast or kangaroo fillets instead of fat tier options like pork belly or beef ribs.
Fish and seafood
Fish is a good source of protein and contains many vitamins and minerals. It is also low in saturated fat and calories. Salmon, tuna, trout, herring, sardines, mackerel and anchovies are among the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats can improve blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Seafood is another excellent source of protein with a wide variety of nutrient profiles. Shrimp, crab, lobster, oysters, mussels and scallops are all good choices. Like fish, seafood is low in saturated fat but high in healthy omega-3 fatty acids. It is also a good source of selenium which is an important mineral for thyroid health.
Both fish and seafood can be cooked using a variety methods such as baking, grilling or frying. When cooking fish or seafood it is important to use healthy cooking methods such as these to preserve the nutrients contained within them.
“You are what you eat, so don’t be fast, cheap, easy or fake.” -Unknown
Eggs
While eggs used to be vilified for their cholesterol content, we now know that dietary cholesterol is not as big of a concern as we once thought. In fact, eggs can actually help improve your cholesterol levels by increasing the HDL (good) cholesterol while keeping the LDL (bad) cholesterol in check.
If you’re looking to add more protein to your diet or simply want a delicious and nutritious food, eggs are a great choice!
Dairy food such as milk and yoghurt (also carbohydrate)
Are an excellent source of macronutrients such as calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. They also contain a range of other nutrients including protein, fat, carbohydrates and water.
Dairy foods are an important part of a healthy balanced diet and can help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease and some types of cancer. Milk is a particularly good source of calcium which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Yoghurt is also a good source of protein and can help to boost the immune system.
Dairy foods can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet even if you are lactose intolerant as there are now many lactose-free products available.
Nuts (also fats)
Is a type of macronutrient, which means they are a key source of energy for the body. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
There are many different types of nuts, including almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts. Each type of nut has its own unique nutritional profile. However, all nuts contain some combination of the following nutrients:
Fat: Nuts are a good source of healthy fats. The fat content in nuts ranges from 50-80%. The type of fat found in nuts is mostly unsaturated fat (the “good” kind), which has been linked with lower cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of heart disease.
Protein: Nuts contain high levels of protein (20-30%). Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. It is also necessary for other vital processes in the body such as hormone production and blood clotting.
Fiber: Most nuts contain high levels of fiber (5-10%). Fiber helps to keep us regular by promoting bowel movements and preventing constipation. It can also help to lower cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels. Additionally, fiber helps us feel full after eating so we don’t overeat or snack unnecessarily between meals. Macronutrients.
Soy and tofu products
Soy and tofu products are becoming increasingly popular as people look for healthier and more environmentally friendly dietary options. These products are made from soybeans, which are a type of legume. Legumes are an important part of a healthy diet, as they are a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Soybeans have been cultivated in China for over 3,000 years and were introduced to the United States in the early 1800s. Today, soybeans are the second most widely planted crop in the world after corn. The majority of soybeans grown in the United States are used for animal feed, but a small percentage is used to make soybean oil, tofu, tempeh, textured vegetable protein (TVP), miso, and other food products.
Soybeans contain all eight essential amino acids that our bodies need to build proteins. They also contain phytochemicals known as isoflavones (e.g., genistein and daidzein), which have been shown to have health-promoting effects such as reducing cholesterol levels and protecting against certain types of cancer (e.g., breast cancer). Soy foods can be an excellent source of protein for vegetarians or those who eat little meat or dairy products.
Tofu is made by curdling soy milk with a coagulant such as calcium sulfate or magnesium chloride. The curds are then pressed into solid blocks. Tofu comes in various textures, depending on how much water has been removed from it. Firm tofu has less water than regular tofu, while extra-firm tofu has even less water. Silken tofu has the highest water content among different types of tofu. It is also softer than other types because it has not been pressed during manufacturing process. Tofu can be used in sweet or savory dishes, cooked alone or combined with other ingredients such as vegetables, meats, fish, etc. It can be grilled, baked, stir-fried, deep-fried, simmered, stewed, pickled, etc.
Tofu contains no cholesterol and is low in calories yet high in some nutrients like iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. In fact, one serving (3 oz) provides about one third of an adult’s daily recommended intake for these minerals! Soymilk, on the other hand, is made by grinding soybeans,.