Are you curious about macros and what the tracking process is all about? Check out our beginner’s guide to tracking macros!
Here you will get an overview to macros and find answers to frequently asked questions, like:
- What is a macro?
- What are the benefits of counting macros?
- How do I get started with tracking macros in my diet?
What is a macro?
A “macro” is a macronutrient, and they’re found in every food we eat. Macronutrients come from three sources: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Each macronutrient contains a certain number of calories per gram.
- Carbohydrate: 4 calories/gram
- Fats: 9 calories/gram
- Protein: 4 calories/gram
The number of macronutrients you eat each day adds up to your total caloric intake. And a certain percentage of those calories will have come from carbohydrate, fat, and protein.
What are the benefits of counting macros?
You might be thinking that it’s much easier just to track total calories. And while it is, total calories won’t give you the whole picture of what you eat each day. Where are those calories coming from? How much protein or fat are you actually eating? Tracking macros helps you answer these questions.
By tracking macros, you’re setting yourself up for success with your fitness and performance goals. By aligning your macros with your fitness goals, you’re better able to fuel your body and get the results you’re after in the gym.
How do I get started with tracking macros in my diet?
1. Set daily macro goals.
To set your daily macro goals, the first thing you’ll need to do is figure out your daily caloric needs. Once you know how many calories you should be eating in a day, the next step is to figure out your macro breakdown. This breakdown is the percentage of calories you’ll be eating from carbohydrate, fat, and protein. If you work with a nutrition coach, they can help you figure out all the numbers. However, it’s possible to get started on your own.
2. Keep track of the food you eat.
Once you have your daily macro goals, it’s time to start tracking the food you eat. You can keep a daily food log using a paper journal, but you’ll have to do quite a bit of math and research to stay on top of your goals. A better option is to find an app that will make the process more streamlined and efficient.
3. Adjust as needed.
As you’re getting started with tracking your macros, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. But after a few days, you’ll have a better grasp of the process and how to best keep track of the numbers, such as serving sizes, etc. Sticking with the process also allows you to see patterns over time and where you can make improvements. Adjusting your macro goals ensures that you continue making progress toward your goals.
To learn more about the programs we’re currently offering at Cannon Fitness and Performance in Houston, contact us today.