In cases of extreme nutrient depletion, the muscles in the body can be used to provide energy. Like carbohydrates, proteins provide four calories per gram. This macronutrient is also crucial for cellular structure, including the membrane. When you eat something with protein, it gives your body essential amino acids. Excess fat is stored in adipose tissue, which is burned when the body runs out of carbohydrates. That means fats are twice as energy-rich as carbohydrates and proteins. They also act as solvents for hormones and essential fat-soluble vitamins.įats have the highest caloric content of any macronutrient, which is why they provide the most substantial amount of energy (nine calories per gram). These macronutrients help the body make hormones.

Carbohydrates also play a role in fat oxidation. In addition to providing immediate fuel, carbohydrates form the majority of stored energy reserves in our body.įor instance, glucose is used as fuel for the brain and is stored in the liver as glycogen. Here’s how each macronutrient helps your body thrive:Ĭarbs are the body’s primary source of energy. Regulate vital bodily processes, like fueling muscles, regulating the central nervous system, creating enzymes, eliminating waste, and much more.Conduct nerve impulses that allow us to sense and interact with our environment.Aside from water, every macronutrient provides energy that helps the body to: Our bodies need these nutrients in larger quantities. Macronutrients are fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and water. Here’s what these terms mean and why they matter to your health. Macronutrients: What’s the Difference?Īll the food we eat contains macronutrients and micronutrients.

Micro and macro nutrients