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Which Group of Macromolecules Would a Nut Contain?

Food is converted into energy that it used by our bodies. The major nutrients of food, macromolecules, come in different amounts in particular foods. The major categories of macromolecules in food are fats, carbohydrates and protein. Each one of these categories contributes calories to the overall food, but in different quantities per each gram. Even though there are a variety of different kinds of nuts, they all contain these three macromolecules in different quantities.

  1. Carbohydrates

    • Carbohydrates come in the form of sugars and starches. Sugars are smaller molecules than their starchy counterparts. Each of these two types contributes calories to the overall food. Longer carbohydrate chains are referred to as dietary fiber and are not metabolized by the body. Since they are not broken down, they do not contribute calories but are still an important part of the diet. Carbohydrate percentages for peanuts are 5.3 percent, cashews are 19.9 percent, and macadamia nuts are 2.6 percent.

    Fats

    • Some may find it hard to believe that fats are beneficial, but different types of fats are good in the diet. Fatty acids can be divided into major groups of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. A particular type of oil will have these three fatty acids in different amounts. It is impossible to find a pure source of any type of fatty acid in nature. For instance, for every 100 grams of almonds there are 4 grams of saturated fatty acids, 32 grams monounsaturated fatty acids, and 12 grams of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Nuts, in general, do contain a large amount of fat, which can make them turn rancid.

    Protein

    • Nuts are also a good source of non-animal protein. For those that are practicing vegetarian diets, nuts can help meet the daily demands of protein. Proteins are large molecules made of amino acids, 21 of them total. It is important to remember that nuts can give only certain kinds of amino acids, and other foods would need to be eaten to produce a full complementary protein. A one-ounce portion of peanuts contains 8 grams of protein, almonds 6 grams, cashews 4 grams and 2 grams for macadamia nuts.

    Benefits

    • It is no coincidence that many cultures around in the world consume nuts on a daily basis. Certain nuts have been found to contain components that support heart health. The Mayo Clinic lists the beneficial components of nuts as having unsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, vitamin E, plant sterols and L-arginine. Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to support heart health in various ways, including preventing dangerous heart rhythms. Nuts are said to be one of the best plant sources for omega-3 fatty acids. Fiber is an essential part of the daily diet and supports a healthy lifestyle by lowering cholesterol and making you feel full.

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