What Are Macros?
Macros (short for macro nutrients) may sound like an intense diet lingo used by major body builders or nutritionists, but it’s actually a lot less complicated. Macro nutrients are the nutrients in our food that deliver the most energy and are required in the largest amounts.The different macro nutrients are carbohydrates (carbs), proteins, and fats. Everything aside, such as vitamins and minerals, are categorized as micro nutrients that provide smaller energy, and are only required in small amounts. As its name would suggest, macro diets focus on the three macro nutrients and how to utilize them to get the results we are after.
-Carbohydrates (4 calories per gram)
Carbs are a macronutrient required and when broken down provide the largest source of energy to fuel daily activity. Carbs provide energy, regulate blood sugar, and remove toxins through waste. They can be broken down into two groups- complex and simple. Complex carbs are in fruits, veggies, oats, potatoes and whole grains while simple carbs are basically sugars that break down very quickly.
-Proteins (4 calories per gram)
Protein is broken down into amino acids that help to then produce new protein enzymes. This helps with the growth and repair of muscle tissue, immune function, and energy to muscle.
-Fats ( 9 calories per gram)
Not all fats are bad. Some are required for certain human functions, and if healthy can aid in weight loss. Fats help supply the body with fatty acids, such as omega-3 acids (used to promote heart health), Absorb vitamins and minerals, and regulate hormones that control blood pressure. The three basic types of fat are saturated fats common in animal products like meat, milk and poultry. Second, unsaturated Fats which are in plants, vegetable oil, nuts and seeds. Unsaturated fat are your healthy fats that helps lower heart disease and promote blood flow. Third is Trans-fat, known as the bad fat, which is found in processed foods
The Macro Diet
Living a macro counting lifestyle can benefit anyone really, not just the extreme. On a surface level, this diet provides a deeper understanding of nutrients and calories that make up our food and how they affect the body. In retrospect, the 100 calories in a piece of chocolate is quite different than counting 100 calories in a piece fruit. This helps make informed decisions about food choices. They may not even require any dramatic or far-reaching lifestyle changes, as they are customizable to any dietary preference, body type, or other goal. This is different from other diets because it’s not a one size fits all approach. Everyone starts with a target macro ratio based on their basal metabolic rate(the amount of calories your body burns at a resting state). For example, in order to lose weight someone might have their daily macros set to 30 percent carbohydrates, 45 percent protein, and 25 percent fat. Providing your body, the correct amount of protein, carbs, and fats, will help you reach the desired goals and learn the art of manipulating macros to your greatest benefit.
Health & Wellness 