If you’re on a journey of getting fit and healthy, being aware of what you’re eating is important. In fact, nutrition plays a key role in your health more than hitting the gym itself. In which case, knowing how much fat, carbohydrate, and protein you should be eating daily will act as a guideline in helping you to reach your goal.
How Many Percent A Day
Based on the 2010 Dietary Guidelines, fat consumption should be between 20% to 35% of one’s total daily calories. In comparison, carbohydrates should make up for 45% to 65% with a minimum of 130 grams a day, and protein should be within 10% to 35% of daily calories. These are the recommended ranges for when you’re planning your meals. However, these numbers aren’t the only thing to take into consideration.
Types Of Fat
Unlike protein and carbohydrate, fat has the most calories. Hence, choosing the right type of fat to consume is important. When planning your meals, go for mono-unsaturated or poly-unsaturated fat. Between the two, mono-unsaturated fats such as olive, nut oils, and avocado, are healthier because they lower bad cholesterol (LDL). Aside from these two fats, you might want to limit saturated fats that come from animals while staying clear of trans-fat from processed food.
Know Your Carbohydrates
First, there are good carbs. Good carbs are complex carbohydrates such as grains, lentils, and beans, that raise your blood sugar slowly. It will help to keep you feeling satiated for a longer time while maintaining your blood sugar levels. Then, there are bad carbs. Bad carbs are fast-acting carbohydrates such as candy, cake, soda, and juice, that raise your blood sugar quickly. They won’t satisfy hunger and might cause you to eat more instead. So choose your carbohydrates wisely.
What About Protein?
Simply remember that your body needs protein to grow and function. Thus, always ensure that you consume adequate amounts of protein daily.
Ready To Start Eating Healthy?
At the Curve, we house fitness and wellness centres as well as pharmacies and nutrition providers to help you on your fitness journey. So head over to the Curve this weekend to get started!
