What is the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) for carbohydrates, protein and fat? What does Joe’s dietary analysis reveal about his consumption (under, over, or on target) intake of each macronutrient?

  1. Joe is a body-builder who has not obtained the results he is seeking. He was advised by a so-called nutritionist (a designation that has no legal standard, unlike a ‘registered dietitian’) to consume mostly protein in his diet (along with expensive protein shakes and supplements) while avoiding fats and carbohydrates because “only protein builds muscle tissue”. This is dangerous advice and it is patently false. A recent dietary analysis of Joe’s food intake finds that he is consuming: 25% of his total calories as carbohydrates and 10 grams of dietary fiber, 15% of his total calories as fat, the majority of which are saturated fats, and 60% of his total calories as protein. His total calorie intake is between 2500 and 3000 calories each day. Joe is 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs 170 pounds. Based on this information, please answer the following:
    1. What is the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) for carbohydrates, protein and fat? What does Joe’s dietary analysis reveal about his consumption (under, over, or on target) intake of each macronutrient?
    2. Why are carbohydrates the preferred source of energy for the human body? What cells in the human body rely exclusively on carbohydrates for energy? What other nutrients can supply energy if the preferred source is unavailable?
    3. Joe only consumes about 10 grams of dietary fiber. What is the current recommendation for fiber intake according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics? What are the health benefits of  dietary fiber besides providing “regularity” to the small and large intestines? What foods could Joe consume to bring his dietary intake in line with current recommendations – provide portion sizes as well as fiber content of foods you identify?
    4. Thinking back to information provided in Unit 1 regarding the digestive system, where does protein digestion start after consumption and what organ is responsible for the majority of protein digestion? Once proteins are broken down to amino acids through digestion, what organ receives the amino acids after they leave the small intestine?
    5. It is the responsibility of the liver to determine where dietary amino acids (as well as those liberated from various body tissues) will end up. What are at least 6 of the major functions in the body of amino acids/protein besides energy or building/repairing body tissues?
    6. What factors influence the quality of dietary protein (high quality versus low quality dietary protein sources)? Include a discussion of essential amino acids, limiting amino acids, and complementary proteins in your response. What food sources tend to offer high quality or complete proteins in the human diet?
    7. Describe the health risks associated with overconsumption of dietary protein.
    8. While protein-energy malnutrition is typically not a problem in the US (and Joe is definitely not at risk), it can be widespread in impoverished areas of the world. Discuss the characteristics of kwashiorkor and marasmus.