Macronutrients are chemical compounds that we, as humans, consume in the largest quantities. They provide the body with the calories required for growth, metabolism, and other bodily functions. There are 3 macronutrients: protein, carbohydrates, and fat. They each have a unique role in the body.
Carbohydrates = 4 calories per gram
Protein = 4 calories per gram
Fat = 9 calories per gram
Other than the 3 aforementioned macronutrients, the only other substance that provides calories is alcohol. It is not considered a macronutrient because, contrary to popular belief, alcohol is not needed for survival.
Alcohol = 7 calories per gram
As opposed to micronutrients, macronutrients are called such because the body requires large amounts of them daily. Whereas micronutrients, vitamins and minerals, are required in smaller amounts but are just as important.
Stay tuned for an in depth look at the 3 macronutrients.
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