Understanding what your body needs specifically as it relates to proteins fats and carbohydrates is extremely important to the health of the individual. An imbalance, especially if its drastic can lead or contribute to a host of problems including metabolic syndrome, diabetes, heart disease and even cancers. Although the further breakdown of what we need is important, especially since most lack many of both the trace and major nutrients, our first focus will be on what is simple and foundational, and then I will build on that.
One of the most important tests that can be done to find out what is the right diet for you is called Metabolic Typing. You can find out for free by taking the test here. http://nutritionaltyping.mercola.com/
This test is something that many of the holistic doctors are now starting to use and even some maiinstream MDs are using it due to its effectiveness and simplicity, coupled with common sense. Metabolic typing has had some tremendous success in treating the person as a whole, and in some cases such as diabetes is integral. Metabolic Typing also teaches to pay attention to your body, paying special attention to how you feel after eating meals and even in general. One often overlooked source of valuable data comes from the person itself, as most doctors do not know how to listen to their patient. Proper care always considers the patients input, and in fact seeks it out as a major source of information in regards to how progress is coming along. Metabolic typing helps determine what your body needs. Some are considered protein types. These need more protein and fats than others, and too much carbohydrates, especially simple forms leads to problems for these. You have the carbs types who do not need as much protein and fats, and do well on a higher carb diet in the form of mostly vegetables. If they consume too much fat or protein than they tend to develop certain problems. Most fall into one of those two categories, however some fall somewhere in between. It is important thing to mention that these are guidelines, and don't constitute neglect by minimalizing consumption of the other nutrients that are needed in smaller quantities.