How To Build A Perfect Plate

Introduction

Protein

Why do we need protein?Protein is the “building blocks” for the growth and repair of tissues. Protein aids in building muscle as well supports our immune function, keeping us from getting sick. Protein can be used as an energy source but it’s not proteins main function nor is it easy for the body to convert protein to energy. You can think of protein as your raw materials in the construction of your body.

Protein that comes from animal sources contains all of the eight essential amino acids needed, where as plant sources of protein do not. However, by eating a variety of plant sources, the essential amino acids can be supplied.

We need protein to effectively build muscle, whether you have a strength goal or a weight loss goal an increase in muscle raises our bodies metabolic rate. Basically we have a better metabolism and burn more calories at rest. This just makes it easier to have less body fat. That is why we prioritize protein on our plates and give it a 1/3 section of our healthy plate.

Energy

Our main source of energy are carbs, why do we need carbs?Carbohydrates provide the major source of energy to fuel our daily activities. This does not include fibrous carbohydrates like carbs from veggies. The energy created from carbs are used for normal daily activities and brain function.

Fuel your workouts with carbs and reap the benefits of your workouts with protein. This is why 1/3 of our plate is prioritized for energy this energy section is shared between carbs and fat. So a combination of carbs and fat take up a 1/3 section of our healthy plate.

Our secondary source of energy are fats, why do we need fats?In addition to supplying energy, fats are needed to supply fatty acids that the body needs but cannot make (such as omega-3). Fats are also needed to assist with absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K and carotenoids.

Essential fatty acids is the scientific term for fats the body can't make on its own. These fats store energy, insulate us and protect our vital organs. They act as messengers, helping proteins do their jobs. They also start chemical reactions involved in growth, immune function, reproduction and other aspects of basic metabolism. Fats are more calorie dense than carbs that why they take up a smaller portion of our perfect plate. Fats fall into the energy category on our Perfect Plate so shared with carbs fats take up a 1/3 section of our plate.