Nutrient functions for our body

Fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Every time we hear about nutrition, these words are omnipresent. But do we know exactly what that means? Do we really understand the role they play in our organization?

Macronutrients

Our body needs different basic substances that allow us to form new cells, structure tissues and maintain signals between them, among many other functions.

These substances are known as macronutrients because they are, along with water, the most basic and abundant substrate in our body. In addition, they play the role of distributing the energy needed for our vital functions. However, in the detail of what each of these macronutrients is used for?

What are fats used for?

Fats, or rather, lipids, encompass a large number of basic substances of living beings. Its main function is structuring and energetic. Structuring because they help to form the essential parts of cells, they play a role of molecular transporter and are an essential part of metabolism. They are also one of the main forms of energy for our body and allow for their storage. When they accumulate, they provide a long-term stock. On the other hand, too much fat accumulation will cause overweight and obesity.

On the other hand, if lipid levels are too low, it can lead to major metabolic problems, and will affect the hormones and energy available.  The first symptoms are the loss of certain physiological functions, weight loss, hair and dry skin... Finally, a severe lack of these macronutrients will result in loss of vision, fainting, dysfunction of certain organs and could even be fatal in the medium term.

What are proteins used for?

Proteins are among the most essential macronutrients and their functions are numerous. In reality, proteins are tailor-made tools for each task performed by our body. Some carry energy, others change the structures of our body, help to make it react... The muscles are also very dependent on proteins because the muscle cells contain a very large quantity of them.

Not eating enough protein can cause a lack of energy, discomfort, muscle weakness... in the most serious cases it can affect the proper functioning of the body in many aspects. Fortunately, it is easier to have an excess problem than a lack of macronutrients.

What are carbohydrates used for?

With their chemical composition (hydrogen, oxygen and carbon), carbohydrates have, like other macronutrients, many functions in our body.

Its most well-known function is that of energy supply, since they supply all the cells of our body. Carbohydrates also include dietary fiber, which is essential for digestion. Carbohydrates also serve as an energy reserve, especially in the muscles where glycogen is stored. Less known than other functions, carbohydrates play a role in the cell membrane although their action is limited. In general, a lack of carbohydrate can cause nausea and discomfort (like what happens with diabetes). A prolonged lack of it could have even greater consequences.