Spirit Science 33_5 ~ Nutrition Basics

In this Spirit Science episode, we dive even deeper into the specifics of nutrition and break down the three main categories of nutrients, and then the various subgroups within each one.

Patchman explains there are three main nutrient groups: Macronutrients, Micronutrients and Phytonutrients.

Macronutrients are the class of chemical compounds that humans consume the largest portions of. These are carbs, proteins, and fats. Patchman explains the use and function of these macronutrients in great detail throughout the video.

Then we have Micronutrients. The most common form of Micronutrients are vitamins, which assist our cells to create energy. There are six main vitamin groups which include A, B, C, E, D, K and B vitamins like B-12. Each vitamin supports a specific part and function in our body, all of which are vitally important to keep balanced.

The other form of Micronutrients is minerals, right off the well known periodic table. The main 7 that we ingest the most are sodium, potassium, chloride, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and sulfur. Just like the vitamins, each mineral supports different aspects of the human body, everything from creating healthy bones, boosting our immune system and stabilizing our mood.

Finally, we have Phytonutrients. These are living plant compounds that exist in their own category because they aren’t actually related to carbs, fats, proteins, vitamins or minerals. Some of the amazing benefits of consuming Phytonutrients include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, repairing damaged DNA, enhancing intercellular communication and much more!

Phytonutrients can be found in most colorful plant foods, whole grains, spices, herbal teas, and almost all plant-based food!

Patchman goes onto the create the connection between disease and being nutritionally deficient. When we don’t provide the nutrients our bodies need to function optimally, they pull energy and vitamins from other organs to try and balance itself out.

Listening to your body and providing it the healthiest options, getting the best nutrition available, will immensely boost your health, energy levels, and even mental clarity!

Sources:

The types of nutrient groups