What are Macros?

Macro is short for “macronutrient”

They’re the three categories of nutrients you eat the most and provide you with most of your energy . . . .Protein, carbohydrates and fats.

So when you’re counting macros, you’re counting the grams of proteins, carbs or fat that you’re consuming.

The 3 main macros are:

Protein – Helps build muscle, transport nutrients, and prevent illness, among many other functions.

Carbohydrates – The primary source of energy in the human body.  The two main types of carbohydrates are simple and complex.

Fats – Vital for maintaining cell function, boosting brain development, protecting the organs, and boosting nutritional intake from other foods.

** Fun fact – each gram of protein and carbs has 4 calories. Each gram of fat has 9 calories.

Let’s take it one step farther and talk about the 2 kinds of Carbohydrates while we are at it:

Simple Carbs – broken down quickly by the body to be used as energy .  Some are naturally occurring, (ex. in fruit or milk).processed sugars are usually added to foods like candies, baked goods, and soda. can cause a spike in blood sugar levels.

Complex Carbs – take longer to digest – won’t spike blood sugar levels.  found in whole grains, legumes and vegetables.

What is Macro Tracking?

• Tracking EVERYTHING you eat
• You will have a goal (by grams) for each macro (protein, carbs & fat)

Ok, now that you know all about macros (or at least have somewhat of a base of knowledge) you may be asking yourself . . . why do I care?

That, my friends, is the bigger question!

Why track macros?

By focusing on macros (and not just total calories) you are:

• dialing in more precise nutrition to ensure you have sustained energy throughout the day
• limiting muscle loss during your weight loss phase
• focusing on calorie quality
• help you achieve any body goal – whether that is to lose weight, maintain weight or build muscle.

The prescribed macro ratios will take into account your age, gender, activity, current level of muscle, fitness goals etc. How cool is that?

There are many benefits of tracking macros:

•  “Flexible” dieting . . . you can plan (and track) foods you enjoy
• Nothing is off limits (if you track it)
• Sustainable as a lifestyle
• No special food – eat all your favorites – eat anywhere you are
• You can tweak your macros based on season of the year (i.e. move to maintenance over the holidays!)
• Works with all eating styles (carnivore, vegetarian, vegan etc)
• Learn to properly fuel yourself
• Learn how your body feels and responds to a variety of food
• Will change your body composition
• Improves your metabolism

I hope that helps get you started! If you have any questions about what your macros should be feel free to shoot me a message! Reach out to Julie