The primary difference between macronutrients and micronutrients is what they are made of. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between the two.
Macronutrients, as the name projects, are large nutrients that are obtained from whole foods. While whole foods, such as nuts, seeds, dairy products, eggs, meat, fruits and veggies contain micronutrients as well, there are large doses of macronutrients. Macronutrients are filled with calories that provide energy to all of the major organs of the body, including the brain. Micronutrients are not filled with calories, but rather are rich in antioxidants, which protect the body from free-radicals that lead to premature aging and disease.
Micronutrients, because of their antioxidant properties, work to protect the body and eliminate toxins from the system. They neutralize radicals and keep the body operating at its optimum level. This is why it is important to consume foods that contain a large variety of micronutrients.
Micronutrients are mainly comprised of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, or vitamin E, whereas macronutrients are comprised of large molecules such as carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen. Macronutrients are carbohydrates, fats and protein which are required by the body in large quantities to survive. The breakdown of these nutrients provides energy to the body.
