We are constantly being told that we need more nutrients in our diets, but what kind of nutrient? And which ones are most important to have enough of?

Most people seem to focus only on the macronutrients (carbohydrate, protein, and fat) when talking about nutrition. These three major food groups are often mentioned together, making it hard to tell how much each individual needs per day.

However, not all carbs are created equal. Some can be and should be limited while others cannot. Similarly, proteins and fats both play an essential role in health so it is important to understand their effects on your body. This article will talk about the different types of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as some numbers you should know for each one.

What makes someone gain weight depends on two things: how many calories they consume and what type of fuel their bodies use to work. The number of calories you eat every day equals the number you burn through activity less rapidly than eating them.

This is why it’s important to watch your calorie intake – without consuming too many, you will lose weight! But aside from losing weight, there are several other reasons to control your nutritional intake. By choosing lower-calorie foods or replacing higher-calorie foods with something healthier, you will help yourself achieve this.

Some examples of high-calorie foods are sweets, chips, and pasta dishes.

Animal fat

We’ve now got enough background to talk about why animal fats are not your friend. They can actually make you heavier!

We’ve talked before about how eating too many carbohydrates (sugars, bread, pasta) will store as glucose in your blood. This is what helps supply your body with energy when it needs it.

But we also learned that some of this glucose gets stored as adipose tissue or belly fat.

This is totally normal – having some extra adipose tissue is helpful for protecting us from food shortages by storing excess calories as “dietary storage.”[1]

However, if you eat lots of foods high in carbohydrate without exercising, then they may go into overdrive and be converted into more glucose in your blood. This can contribute to weight gain.[2]

That’s why most diets recommend limiting carbs while concurrently increasing proteins and/or fats. Because protein and fat don’t trigger the production of insulin, they won’t lead to increased blood sugar levels.

So their effect on obesity risk is limited compared to those rich in carb. Unfortunately, though, these other macronutrients aren’t necessarily healthier than carbs for everyone.

For people who have metabolic issues like diabetes, keto works better because it puts your body in starvation mode which can help regulate blood glucose.