Target Your Food Intake for Healthier Weight Loss

Anytime you are going to be eating less, it is crucial to feed your body the right balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat to fuel important biological processes as well as to fill you up. Since every food falls into one of the three categories of macronutrients, no food is off limits but all food intake must be part of your target intake for the day. If there is a major imbalance in the consumption of macronutrients, your body may not be getting enough of that macro for healthy hormone production.

• PROTEIN - Arguably, the king of macros for fitness freaks is protein. It is normally associated with building and repairing muscle tissue but its uses extend beyond the gym. Protein is the core component of all tissues in the body including organs, bones, hair and enzymes, such as hemoglobin that transports oxygen throughout your body.
• FAT - Fats help maintain healthy tissues and cells as well as ensure proper nerve and brain function while increasing your body's ability to absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Fat often gets a bad rap because it is the most calorie dense macronutrient but consumption of healthy fats is important for normal body functions.
• CARBS - The human body does not produce the enzymes needed to digest fiber, so the best carbohydrates are micronutrient-dense whole foods that contain sugars or starches along with fiber. Your gut microbial breaks it down through fermentation and uses it as an energy source.

Avoid placing too much focus on optimizing macronutrient ratios and make sure you eat a balanced combination of real foods that will contribute to your overall health and wellness. Modest changes in macronutrient intake can be beneficial for losing weight. However, tweaking one's daily menus may not be appropriate for everyone, particularly those with diseases affected by diet composition or other chronic medical concerns. For a personalized menu plan that is designed specifically for your body, contact the Metabolic Research Center today.