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Protein
Protein is made up of amino acids that are considered to be the building blocks of our body tissue. They are responsible for the repair and maintenance of the bodies living cells, therefore it is important to get enough protein- especially for people who are very physically active. Animal protein (meat, eggs and dairy) is a good source of amino acids, but it's also more likely to contain saturated fat and cholesterol, so try to choose lean sources of protein, and eat a combination of both animal and plant proteins.
Go to the Protein Table
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are aptly described as "brain food". They not only supply nearly all of the energy that your brain uses everyday, but they also provide about half of all the energy human nerves, muscles and other body tissues use.
Not all carbohydrates are made equal. Simple carbohydrates take the form of sugar- from the natural sugar in fruit to the refined sugar in candy and soda. Complex carbohydrates are found in rice, pasta, vegetables and breads. Our bodies need some of both, but it's best to get most of your "carbs" from the complex carbohydrate list.
Go to the Carbohydrate table.
Fats
Fat has gotten a pretty bad reputation in recent years, but fatty acids serve several important functions in our body. Fats, like carbohydrates, provide us with energy, and they are essential for absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K . Fatty acids help our body regulate inflammation, blood pressure, and blood clotting, and they're also used as insulation and cushioning for our organs.
Of the different kinds of fat, saturated fats raise cholesterol levels, causing heart disease. Alternatively, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats help to lower bad cholesterol, decreasing the risk of heart disease. All fats are very high in calories, so use them sparingly!
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