Athletics & Wellness
Grade 7
45 min
Fueling Your Engine: Meet the Macronutrients
Ever wonder what food gives you the energy to score the winning goal or ace your gym class? This lesson introduces you to the 'big three' macronutrients—carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—and shows you how they fuel your body's engine for any activity!
Tutorial Preview
1
What & Why
Meet Your Body's Fuel Crew!Just like a car needs gasoline, your body needs fuel from food to move, think, and grow. The three main types of fuel are called macronutrients. Let's meet them!1. Carbohydrates (Carbs) — The Go-GetterWhat they are: Sugars, starches, and fiber found in foods like bread, pasta, fruits, and vegetables.Their Job: Carbs are your body's #1 choice for quick energy. They are perfect for fueling up before a game or practice.2. Protein — The BuilderWhat it is: A nutrient found in foods like chicken, beans, tofu, eggs, and yogurt.Its Job: Protein is the ultimate repair crew. It helps build and repair your muscles, especially after you've been active. It also helps you feel full and satisfied.3. Fats — The Long-HaulerWhat they are: A source of long-lasting energy found in f...
2
Example 1 — Pre-Game Power-Up
It's one hour before your big basketball game. You need energy that will kick in fast but won't make you feel sick or sluggish on the court.Your Goal: Choose a snack that is high in easily digestible carbohydrates.Smart Move: A banana, a handful of pretzels, or an apple. These are simple carbs that your body can quickly turn into fuel for the game.Tough Move: A big, greasy slice of pizza. The high fat and protein will take a long time to digest, which could make you feel slow and heavy.The Takeaway: Before activity, focus on carbs for quick, accessible energy!
3
Example 2 — Post-Workout Repair
You just finished a tough, sweaty soccer practice. Your muscles feel tired and a little sore. Now is the time to help them recover and get stronger for next time.Your Goal: Eat a snack with both protein and carbohydrates within an hour of finishing your workout.Smart Move: A glass of chocolate milk or a Greek yogurt with some berries. This combo gives you protein to start repairing your muscles and carbs to refill your energy tanks.Tough Move: A bag of gummy candies. This is all sugar (carbs) and has no protein to help your muscles. You'll get a quick sugar rush, but it won't help you recover properly.The Takeaway: After activity, pair protein with carbs to rebuild and refuel.
2 more steps in this tutorial
Sign up free to access the complete tutorial with worked examples and practice.
Sign Up Free to ContinueSample Practice Questions
Beginner
Your friend says they avoid all fats because they think 'eating fat makes you fat.' What's the BEST way to explain healthy fats to them?
A.You're right, all fat is bad and should be avoided.
B.Only fats from fried food are good for you.
C.Healthy fats, like from avocados and nuts, are important for long-term energy and brain health.
D.You should only eat protein and nothing else.
Beginner
Which macronutrient is the body's main and quickest source of energy?
A.Protein
B.Carbohydrates
C.Fats
D.Vitamins
Beginner
It's 30 minutes before your track meet. Which is the BEST snack to give you a quick burst of energy without feeling too full?
A.A large bowl of pasta with cheese
B.A handful of almonds
C.A banana
D.A cheeseburger and fries
Want to practice and check your answers?
Sign up to access all questions with instant feedback, explanations, and progress tracking.
Start Practicing Free