Macronutrients

Macronutrients ("big" nutrients) are the main components of our food. These are:

•  >   
  Carbohydrates
•  >   
  Protein
•  >   
  Fats

One of the main distinguishing characteristics of the many different diets that people follow is the percentage of each of these components. For example, consider the difference between several diets:

• Ornish: high carbohydrate, low fat
• Atkins: high fat, low carbohydrate
• Zone: balance of protein, complex carbohydrates, and good fats.
• SAD (Standard American Diet): high in simple carbs, bad fat, and processed foods.