Weight Loss Advice: Why Nutrition Is of Utmost Importance for Weight Loss

by Anthony Alayon

In order for our bodies to function properly and stay healthy, it is important that we follow a good nutritious diet. Foods are made up of 6 classes of nutrients. These nutrients are macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, fats), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and water. If you neglect to have the right combination of these 6 items, it will be very difficult to live a healthy lifestyle and achieve your weight loss goals!

If you have read any of my articles, you will see how I place such a big emphasis on the 3 macronutrients as they are the backbone to achieving your weight loss or fitness goals! With that being said, I will give you a brief description of the 6 classes of nutrients and explain why they are essential to live a healthy lifestyle.

1. Protein

2. Carbohydrates

3. Fats

4. Vitamins

5. Minerals

6. Water

Good Nutrition Provides The Building Blocks of Muscle

When you eat foods that contain protein, they are broken down in the body as amino acids. These amino acids are then used to build and repair any muscle tissue. This is great for those who are physically active or exercise regularly. This means you will be able to recover at a faster rate than if you were not to consume protein. Every tissue in your body is made up of protein and it is important to consume enough through your diet in order to replenish it. Protein is also needed to help your immune and nervous system.

Good Nutrition Provides Energy

The analogy I think of when discussing nutrition and our bodies is that of a race car. You need to put fuel in it every so often, change the oil and get new tires in order to maintain optimal performance. If you fail to do these things, eventually your body will break down and be worthless. However, if the right steps are taken, you will be well on your way to living a healthy lifestyle and reaping the benefits that come with this.

Foods such as carbohydrates give you energy to function properly throughout your day. In fact, muscle glycogen is an important element to helping you maintain your energy levels throughout your day. When carbs are ingested your pancreas releases a hormone called insulin. Insulin helps to store the carbs as glycogen inside the muscles or store them as fat. It is important to have glycogen (stored carbohydrates) in your body before working out so that you have the energy to get through your workouts. Better workouts enable you to achieve better fat loss results and more muscle gains.