Are you counting macros?

Have you ever been told that you should?

Do you know what macros are?

In the health and fitness world, we often hear about various ways to track our intake or the new hot diet trend of the month. Counting macros is another way of tracking our dietary intake. But what exactly are “macros”? And is counting macros right for you?

Before we can answer that, we first need to understand what macros are.

What are Macros?

Macros, short for macronutrients, are the three essential nutrients your body needs to function correctly: protein, carbohydrates, and fats. These three nutrients are vital for energy production, growth, and overall health.

Protein

Protein is one of the most important macronutrients as it helps build and repair tissues in the body. It is also essential for building muscle mass and maintaining a healthy immune system. Good sources of protein include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs and egg whites, soy beans, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt. Beans, nuts, and seeds provide some protein but not as much as the aforementioned options.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are another essential macronutrient, providing energy to the body. There are two types of carbohydrates: simple and complex. Simple carbohydrates are found in sugary foods such as candy and soda and are quickly absorbed by the body. Complex carbohydrates are found in foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables and provide long-lasting energy.

Fats

Fats are the third essential macronutrient and are essential for the body's normal functioning. They help protect your organs, provide insulation for your body, and help your body absorb vitamins A, D, E and K. Good sources of healthy fats include olive oil, nuts, seeds, nut butters, avocados, and fatty fish like salmon and tuna.

Why are Macros Important?

Macros or macronutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy diet and overall wellness. By understanding the right balance of macronutrients for your body, you can optimize your nutrition, achieve your fitness goals, and maintain a healthy weight.

For example, if your goal is to build muscle mass, you will need to consume more protein than someone whose goal is to maintain their weight and manage their IBS. Likewise, if you're looking to improve your endurance performance for an ironman, you will [very likely] need to increase your intake of complex and simple carbohydrates to fuel your body.

Tracking Macros

Tracking your macronutrient intake is becoming increasingly popular, especially among fitness enthusiasts and athletes. Monitoring your macros, can be a useful tool to ensure that you are consuming the optimal amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fats for your specific goals.

However, I urge caution with tracking if you have ever struggled with or are currently struggling with disordered eating or an eating disorder. Sometimes the simple act of tracking your nutrition increases the intensity of thoughts around food and calories, which can be triggering and a slippery slope for some.

There are many apps and websites available to help you track your macros, making it easier than ever to optimize your nutrition. I recommend cronometer. However, it is always best to consult a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet.

In conclusion, macros are the three essential macronutrients: protein, carbohydrates, and fats, that are vital for maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. By understanding the optimal balance of macronutrients for your body, you can optimize your nutrition, achieve your fitness goals, and maintain a healthy weight.