Pretty much everyone knows that there are four different types of substances that the human body relies on to function – carbohydrates, fats, protein, and water. However, the actual amount of each that is needed in order for one to live a healthy life is often debated. There are so many contradicting diets out there, how can anyone tell which one is really going to be the best for them? If only all the numbers matched up!
Well as we all know, every body (inside and out) is different from the next and therefore, no two people will function optimally on the exact same types and amounts of fuel (ie, food and water). However, there are some generalized guidelines that can help you determine the right amount for you. The hardest part here is not actually following these guidelines, but erasing your preconceived notions about how much of each you should be consuming – especially when it comes to proteins and carbohydrates.
Generally there are two types of people: those who believe in high-protein diets, and those who believe in low-fat diets. Without boring either side, lets just say that too much, or too little of either is not a good thing and will not enable you to have the strength, endurance, energy, and even body that you desire.
To put it simply, we all need to have a steady balance of the foods that we eat, relying mostly on whole, natural products whether those be fruits, vegetables, grains, or even meats. As always, the more natural the better.
For the average person (one who exercises a moderate amount – 3 or so times per week), should consume approximately 65% of their calories from carbs, 15% of their calories from protein, and the remaining 20% of their calories from fats.
For someone who exercises more than 3x per week, or for someone who is trying to build muscle mass, they should consume a mere fraction more of protein, approximately 20% of their calories, and then 60% from carbs, and the remaining 20% from fats.
As I mentioned before, I have vastly simplified these guidelines to help you get a generalized picture of what your diet should entail – but if you want a more in depth look, stay tuned for future blog posts or contact me directly so I can help you plan a diet that will set you on the path to be and feel the best that you ever thought possible.
