When we find ourselves making excuses to skip our workout routines, forget to take our supplements, or just eat whatever’s readily available without regard to its nutrition, it’s time to reconsider our lifestyles.

We don’t wait until we feel random parts of our body begin to ache, get easily fatigued, or no longer be able to do activities that we did with ease a year ago. Something needs to change. But where do we start? How do we squeeze in staying healthy amidst our busy schedules?

If we want to become conscious of our health and what goes into our body, we need to be well-versed with what nutrients our body needs and how much of them we must consume to reach peak performance.

It is important to take note that these essential nutrients are necessary for normal body function, growth and development. However, they are not synthesized by our system, thus, they need to be externally sourced from foods or supplements.

The Macros

Macronutrients are the set of nutrients our body needs to consume in large amounts, specifically proteins, carbohydrates and fats. These are broken down to provide energy and building blocks for our body’s structure.

Proteins are known as the body’s building blocks, especially for muscle tissue. They are also known to aid in our digestive system through digestive enzymes, improve the structure of our skin by providing antioxidants, collagen and elastin, and nourish our hair and nails through keratin. Proteins can be sourced from lean meats, poultry, eggs, fish and dairy.  

Carbohydrates are the body’s go-to energy source. They fuel us throughout our daily activities and during short to moderate lengths of exercise. Carbohydrates are the preferred fuel source for movement, biosynthesis of proteins, brain function and more. This food group includes bread, pasta, rice, cereal, fruits and vegetables.

Healthy fats are essential in giving the body energy and supporting cell function. They also help protect our organs and keep our body warm. We can get this from avocado, almonds, nuts, fish and oils coming from olive, sunflower and canola.

The Micros

Micronutrients, needed in smaller amounts, are minerals and vitamins that are vital in ensuring that our bones, muscles, heart and brain function properly and efficiently. These are also in charge of making enzymes and hormones. There are various sources for these like fruits and vegetables, lean meats, fish, whole grains, dairy, legumes, nuts and liver.

The Supplements

Because it is not every day that we get to cook or consume meals containing all the essential nutrients that we must take in, supplements must be taken to ensure that we still get the right amount of nutritional supply.

Among the supplements the brand USANA recommends are Cellsentials, MagneCal D and BiOmega which are formulated to give the essentials our bodies need daily.

Knowing the right nutrients and supplements and incorporating them in our daily ritual, a long and healthy life no longer needs to be just a dream but rather a lived reality.