Protein is key building blocks of the body making up most human tissue. The body uses protein to build and repair cells , muscle bones and cartilage. Protein also plays a key role in hormone regulation, digestion, organ function and the immune system.

 

As we age we lose muscle mass an estimated 3-8% per decade past the age of 30. This is why building and maintaining muscle is key to health and why a good daily intake of protein is essential.

Carbohydrates are the body's fuel source. Carbs give the body its energy for all its basic functions such as breathing, maintaining body temperature and  heart function.

 

If we over consume carbohydrates the body will store the energy created into fat to use at a later date. This can lead to obesity if the excess fat is not burnt.

Fat is an essential part of our diet and should not be feared. As well as giving the body energy it helps with vitamin absorption and can help control cholesterol and blood pressure.

 

There are two main types of fat, Saturated and unsaturated.

Saturated fats are normally solid at room temperature and found in meats and dairy products.

 

Unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature and found in vegetable oils, nuts and fish. These can also be further split into monosaturated  and polyunsaturated.