| Our bodies use the calories in food for energy by breaking
the food down into molecules; i.e, proteins into amino acids, carbohydrates
into glucose and other sugars, and fats into glycerol and fatty acids.
Transported through the bloodstream, these molecules are either used
immediately or metabolized to release their energy. Calories that are not
used are stored by the body as fat for future energy needs.
Each person has different caloric needs depending on his or her basal
metabolic weight (energy body needs to function at rest), physical activity
level, height, weight and the amount of energy needed to digest food. If a
person eats less calories than he or she burns, that person will lose weight
(fat). Likewise, for every 3,500 calories not burned, that person will gain
a pound. Exercise is beneficial because not only does it raise the body’s
metabolic rate while exercising, the body will continue to burn calories at
a higher rate for another two hours.
The calories in protein, fat and carbohydrates are all the same in terms
of units of energy. If you consume too many calories in any form, you will
gain weight. Because fat is more calorically dense, it should be eaten more
sparingly than lower calorie foods such as fruits and vegetables. In
addition, some fats are healthier than others. It is also wise not to overdo
carbohydrate consumption, especially processed foods and sweets. Excessive
carbohydrate intake causes too much of the insulin hormone to be produced,
which has been linked to heart disease and diabetes. The best advice is to
eat a well-balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables which contain
antioxidants and phytonutrients, and try to avoid excessive caloric intake,
which will only lead to weight gain and its attendant health risks. |