The definition of a nutrient is that it’s something your body has to have, and eventually without it you’d die.  Therefore there is no such thing as a “good” or “bad” nutrient because we have to have them all.  We are going to spend the next 3 days looking at the macronutrients: carbohydrates, protein, fat.

Carbs are your body’s favorite source of fuel. Ideally, 50-60% of your total daily caloric intake should be coming from carbs.  

Things carbs do for your body:

• Energy
• Protein sparing (they prevent your body from eating its muscles and organs for energy)
• The ONLY source of energy that your brain can use.  It needs a continual supply since it can’t store any glucose.  
• Increase the serotonin (“feel good” chemical in your brain)

Tomorrow we'll discuss protein.