Introduction to Sports Nutrition

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Top Contributors - Wanda van Niekerk, Jess Bell and Lucinda hampton  

Basics of Nutrition

Macronutrients

Macronutrients provide calories or energy to the body. Their function is to promote:

• cellular growth
• metabolism
• maintenance of normal bodily functions

Macronutrients are necessary in large amounts to provide a full and proper effect. The three types of macronutrients are:

• carbohydrates
• proteins
• fats

Carbohydrates	Proteins	Fats
Body's main fuel source Broken down into blood glucose Red blood cells and the brain only use glucose for energy Types: sugars, starch, fibre	Chemical foundation for all cells, antibodies, enzymes and hormones Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins Promotes wound healing Plays a role in development and repair of bone, muscle and skin Protein needs are increased during more stressful times and/or during illness Essential for transport of oxygen around the body	An essential nutrient, necessary for normal functioning of the body Concentrated form of energy Help maintain body temperature and insulation of body organs Necessary for health skin and normal nerve function Carry the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K

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