Counting macros is a widespread practice that involves breaking down calorie goals into carbs, proteins and fats.
But is it worth it?
Counting macros involves breaking down your caloric intake into individual macronutrientscarbohydrates, protein and fats.
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Some people track this via an app, and some do it by hand.
What Are Macronutrients?
There are three macronutrientscarbohydrates, proteins and fats.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are the primary energy source for your brain, muscles and nervous system.
Simple carbs include foods like candy, white bread and table sugar.
They are found in foods like vegetables, whole grains and beans.
Most complex carbohydrates have other nutritional benefits.
Animal sources of protein include meats, dairy products and eggs.
Commonplant sources of proteininclude beans, nuts, seeds and tofu.
While most animal protein sources contain all nine essential amino acids, most plant sources do not.
Complementary proteins are different incomplete proteinsproteins with only a few essential amino acidspaired together to make a complete protein.
Unsaturated fats are most commonly found in plant foods, including oils, avocados, nuts and seeds.
Different people have different caloric and macronutrient needs.
For most people,calculating calorie needswill be an estimate.
Where you fall within these ranges depends largely on health conditions and activity levels.
It is also normal for your intake to fluctuate within these ranges on a day-to-day basis.
Putting It All Together
When counting macros, start with your estimated calorie needs.
For carbs and protein, there are 4 calories per gram.
For fats, there are 9 calories per gram.
For example, if you consume protein powder regularly, you may be at risk forover-consuming proteinand under-consuming carbs.
It could promote rigid eating and disconnection from your food preferences and hunger and fullness cues.
However, it is not recommended for those with disordered eating or eating disorders.
