Tags
In this post, I’m going to cover the basics of macro-nutrients. It’s seems like everyone that is into fitness is all about hitting their macros, and whether or not you have heard this term, it is inevitable that you will eventually hear about it.
So the big question, what are MACROS???
Macros or Macro-nutrients are nutrients that our bodies need in large amounts (hence:Macro) in order for us to grow and operate our bodily functions. There are three types of Macronutrients that our bodies need everyday:
- Carbs or Carbohydrates
- Protein
- Fats
Carbs are not your enemy! Even though carbs receive negative connotations, they are actually extremely important for our body and out of the three types of macros, it is the one we need most of. Carbs are the main source of daily fuel for your bodies energy, if you eat to many, don’t worry, your muscles and organs store carbs in their cells for later use. Carbs also help your central nervous system, kidneys, brain, and muscles function properly.
Protein is important for everyone of all ages. It is the source of growth, muscle preservation, energy (when your body is low on carbs), it strengthens your immune system, and provides basic needed hormones and amino acids.
Fats, fats, fats! Reading the name alone made me gain 5 pounds. Truth is, our body needs fats. Like carbs and protein, it too is a source of energy for your body. Other than making your food taste great, digesting the needed amount of fats is necessary for normal body growth and development. It provides vitamins for your intestines, cushions your organs for less risk of injury, builds strong cell membranes, and it has great benefits for your skin from natural oils.
WHERE DO I FIND THESE MACRO-NUTRIENTS?
Here are some foods where you can find macro friendly sources of nutrients:
Carbs – Grains, Potatoes, Fruits, Milk, Yogurts, Rice , Vegetables, Beans, …
Proteins – Meat, Fish, Poultry, Cheese, Nuts, Milk, Eggs …
Fats – Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dairy, Grains, oils, butters, …
One last thing to know about macros…
Keep in mind that for every bite of food, there are calories to account for.
Carbs have about 4 calories per gram.
Protein also has about 4 calories per gram.
Fats are higher with about 7-9 calories per gram.
This is useful information to know because it will influence your fitness goals whether it is to lose or gain weight.
Knowing the amount of macronutrients your body needs is entirely another story, so for now, we will just stay to these basic fundamentals of macros.