After covering molecular structures, lipids, and proteins it is time for the sweet stuff. Carbohydrates include sugars, starches, and fiber. Plants generate simple sugars through photosythesis which they use for energy. Plants also use carbohydrates such as cellulose for their structural support, and starch to store energy as sugars in long chains. We humans use… Continue reading Macro Nutrients Part 4: Carbohydrates
We have looked at lipids and now it is time to focus on proteins. I love proteins! Although proteins are most often associated with meat, proteins are part of many other foods as well. They do so many cool things. Bromelain, found in pineapples, is a meat tenderizer. Gluten, in wheats and other grains, makes… Continue reading Macro Nutrients Part 3: Proteins
The previous post introduced the macro nutrients. This post looks at lipids, one of the macro nutrients. I'll explain what saturated, unsaturated, omega-3, and trans mean when they describe fats. Lipids are a broad group of chemical compounds that are insoluble (do not dissolve) in water. Fats, oils, waxes, phospholipids, and sterols are all lipids. This… Continue reading Macro Nutrients Part 2: Lipids (aka Fats)
Nutrients are split up into two main categories: macro nutrients and micro nutrients. Micro nutrients include vitamins and minerals. They are nutrients that your body needs in small amounts. Macro nutrients make up the bulk of your diet and provide energy. This category includes lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. Knowing about each type of macro nutrient… Continue reading Macro Nutrients Part One: Molecular Structures
A Dash of Science 