Welcome to the first ever blog at Iron Style Apparel! Since this is my first blog, I wanted to cover one of the most important topics when it comes to health and fitness, your diet. I know this is one of those scary words and getting a proper diet can seem daunting to some people, but I am here to clear up some common misconceptions about your diet. So, let’s separate some fact from fiction and dive into the fascinating world of macronutrients! We’re going to start by busting a few myths.
Myth #1: Carbohydrates are the Enemy!
One of the most prevalent myths out there is that Carbohydrates (or carbs for short) are inherently bad for you. In reality, carbs are a crucial source of energy for our bodies. As with most things in the nutrition and fitness world we must differentiate between the two types of carbs, refined carbs and complex carbs. Refined carbs include items such as sugary snacks and white bread while complex carbs include things like whole grains, fruits, and veggies. When choosing carbs, you really want to focus on getting nutrient-dense carbs packed into your diet to help support your energy levels as well as your fiber intake.
Myth #2: All Fats are Unhealthy!
Just like with our last myth there are different types of fat. Some fats, such as trans fats and excessive saturated fats, can be detrimental to our health, but there are fats that our bodies need to function properly. These fats include Monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. Mono and polyunsaturated fats can generally be found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and oily fish. The fats found in these foods are beneficial for your heart health, brain function, and nutrient absorption. While these fats are healthy, they should be taken in moderation to prevent health problems such as heart issues and digestive issues.
Myth #3: Protein is Only for Bodybuilders!
While protein does indeed assist with muscle building, its benefits go beyond just that. Protein is essential for a number of bodily functions, including cell repair, hormone production, and immune system support. Another huge benefit of protein is that it helps you feel full longer, which helps with sticking to your diet. Incorporating lean protein sources like poultry, fish, and legumes into your meals helps ensure you are getting great levels of protein while also keeping you from overeating other macronutrients like fats.
That may have been a lot to read so let me give you the cliff note version for each macronutrient here.
- Carbohydrates: These are the primary energy source for our bodies. Shoot for mostly complex carbs like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to ensure a solid energy supply.
- Protein: The building blocks of our bodies, proteins are crucial for muscle growth, repair, and a slew of other physiological processes. Include lean meats such as poultry, fish, and legumes to ensure high levels of protein without adding unnecessary fats into your diet.
- Fats: Fats are essential for hormone production, nutrient absorption, and insulation of vital organs. Focus on healthy fats commonly found in avocados, olive oil, nuts, and seeds while limiting saturated and trans fats.
I hope that by busting a few myths surrounding macronutrients and understanding what role they play in your body you can begin to make informed decisions about your diet. Remember that everyone’s fitness journey is different and what may work for one person may not work for you as well. Focusing on eating whole foods, eating in moderation, and considering your own individual needs, will put you on the right path for your own journey. Talk to a registered dietitian or nutritionist to get even more personalized advice and continue on your path to a better you. Stay tuned for more health and fitness blogs and thanks for reading!
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified health professional for personalized guidance regarding your nutrition and dietary needs.