To function the body requires three main macronutrients in relatively large amounts; so let´s have a look at these:

Protein:

This is used by the body for many different reasons; but one of the most important functions is as building blocks for muscle. Protein is found in many different forms in percentage per gram per item.

For example if you eat 100 grams of chicken breast this does not mean that you have consumed a 100 grams of Protein. It means in fact that you have had 24 grams of Protein because there are 24 grams of Protein per 100 grams of chicken breast.

Carbohydrates:

This is the energy source the body needs and there are three types, namely,:

Starches: These are complex sugars and provide energy over a longer period of time and are slower to digest; this would be mostly your low GI category carbohydrate.

Sugars: These are your simple sugars and a quick source of energy. An example of this would be things like common table sugar.

Fibre: There are two types of fibre, soluble (Oats) and insoluble (vegetables) both are important to the body and assists in the digestion process.

Fats:

Fats assist the body by helping us absorb vitamins and is also vital for the correct functionality of the nervous system. There are three types of fats namely,

Monounsaturated: These fats can assist in the prevention of things like plaque build-up in our arteries. Almonds and avocadoes are an example of where such fats can be found.

Polyunsaturated: These fats contain omega-3 fatty acids and assist in many different ways, one of which is raising brain function and also lowering cholesterol, a rich source of omega-3 would be things like salmon and various other fish species.

Saturated: These are bad fats, this is what you want to avoid; they increase the risk of heart disease and also push cholesterol through the roof. This would typically be found in things like processed foods.