Nutrition and "The Big Three" Macronutrients

Vocabulary flashcards covering the roles, benefits, risks, and sources of the three macronutrients: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

"The Big Three" Macronutrients

The three primary categories of macronutrients: Carbohydrates, Fats, and Protein.

Simple Carbs

Carbohydrates that provide short bursts of energy (sugar), but carry risks of Type 2 Diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and cancer; found in fruits, candy, and soda.

Fibers

A form of complex carbohydrates that regulates blood sugar, lowers cholesterol, aids digestion, and keeps you full; sourced from vegetables, whole grains, brown rice, and non-processed foods.

Starches

A category of complex carbohydrates whose role is to provide energy and micronutrients.

Fats

A macronutrient whose roles include serving as a source of energy, helping absorb vitamins, supporting hormone production, and maintaining cell structure and function.

Saturated Fats

Fats sourced from dairy, animal fats, and coconut or palm oil, which carry risks of heart disease, stroke, and colon cancer.

Unsaturated Fats

Fats obtained from sources such as avocados, fish, vegetable oils, and nuts.

Protein

A macronutrient whose primary roles are to build and repair muscles and regulate hormones.

Lean Protein

Protein sources including skinless chicken, lean meats (less than 15% fat), fish, tofu, lentils, eggs, and beans, which provide benefits such as less inflammation, less DNA damage, more healthy bacteria, and better genetic control.

Saturated Fat Protein

Protein sources such as skin-on chicken, beef, pork, lamb, and red meat, which carry health risks including heart disease, stroke, and colon cancer.