Counting or tracking macronutrients might sound like a fad and can seem overwhelming to someone just exploring the idea, but both of those myths can be busted.


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Counting or tracking macronutrients might sound like a fad and can seem overwhelming to someone just exploring the idea, but both of those myths can be busted.

Nutrients and macronutrients are essential. When we eat, our bodies jump into action, utilizing whatever we choose to ingest to best keep our bodies running. In order to maintain health, rejuvenate cell production, lose weight, build muscle, etc. we need good nutrients.

Nutrients and macronutrients are essential. When we eat, our bodies jump into action, utilizing whatever we choose to ingest to best keep our bodies running. In order to maintain health, rejuvenate cell production, lose weight, build muscle, etc. we need good nutrients. 


Macronutrients or macros are the sources of our body's energy. They consist of Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Fats. As an article from Food Network said, macronutrients are simply "the trifecta you need to keep you feeling and performing your best."

Macronutrients or macros are the sources of our body's energy. They consist of Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Fats. As an article from Food Network said, macronutrients are simply "the trifecta you need to keep you feeling and performing your best."


Carbs: Our brain/muscles' primary source of energy. But all are not created equal. Generally, the "good guys" are nutrient-dense with high fiber and low sugar (whole grains, fruits, veggies). The"bad guys" are loaded with refined grains &amp; sugars (white grains, sweet pastries).

Carbs: Our brain/muscles' primary source of energy. But all are not created equal. Generally, the "good guys" are nutrient-dense with high fiber and low sugar (whole grains, fruits, veggies). The"bad guys" are loaded with refined grains & sugars (white grains, sweet pastries).


Proteins: They build muscle, repair and rejuvenate cells, help with digestion, and regulate metabolism. (Is there anything protein doesn't do?) Lean sources (lean meats, eggs, dairy, fish) help to keep us feeling satisfied and full (to avoid reaching for bad carbs).

Proteins: They build muscle, repair and rejuvenate cells, help with digestion, and regulate metabolism. (Is there anything protein doesn't do?) Lean sources (lean meats, eggs, dairy, fish) help to keep us feeling satisfied and full (to avoid reaching for bad carbs).


Fats: More specifically: unsaturated fats, which help regulate cholesterol and blood pressure levels (plant oils, avocados, nuts, egg yolks.) Saturated fats (butter, ice cream) should be only occasional treats. Trans fats (margarine, processed foods) should ideally be avoided.

Fats: More specifically: unsaturated fats, which help regulate cholesterol and blood pressure levels (plant oils, avocados, nuts, egg yolks.) Saturated fats (butter, ice cream) should be only occasional treats. Trans fats (margarine, processed foods) should ideally be avoided. 


Tracking for optimal health: The learning curve to track macros on your own can be steep, but a nutritionist can help you begin. Or there are apps and websites anyone can access. They take into account these factors: Height, weight, sex, activity level, and goals.

Tracking for optimal health: The learning curve to track macros on your own can be steep, but a nutritionist can help you begin. Or there are apps and websites anyone can access. They take into account these factors: Height, weight, sex, activity level, and goals.


A simple calculator can be found here: <div contenteditable="false" class="editor-link">
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A simple calculator can be found here: 
 


The results will show your ideal caloric intake as well as a breakdown of percentages/grams for each macro. These can be adjusted depending on progress and goals. Want to lose weight? Build muscle? Macros can be adjusted to help you reach those specific goals.

The results will show your ideal caloric intake as well as a breakdown of percentages/grams for each macro. These can be adjusted depending on progress and goals. Want to lose weight? Build muscle? Macros can be adjusted to help you reach those specific goals.


Tracking food and nutrients can be empowering, connect us with our bodies, and allow us to actually eat what we love. Apps like MyNetDiary and MyFitnessPal make meal tracking easier. Women's Health offers more app suggestions to consider: <div contenteditable="false" class="editor-link">
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Tracking food and nutrients can be empowering, connect us with our bodies, and allow us to actually eat what we love. Apps like MyNetDiary and MyFitnessPal make meal tracking easier. Women's Health offers more app suggestions to consider: 
 


Get to know macronutrients, and don't be afraid to track them.

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