Is it better to hit your macros or calories?
Let’s face it – dieting can be confusing sometimes. Between all the buzzwords and trendy diets, it can be hard to know what really works when you’re trying to lose weight. One of the most common questions people have is whether they should be tracking their macros or just counting calories.
Honestly, this question has been asked so many times that I think we need a special holiday for it. Maybe we could call it “Macros vs. Calories Day,” and everyone could wear t-shirts with their chosen side printed on them.
But until that magical day arrives, let’s dive into this debate once again! In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know about hitting your macros vs. calories.
First Off: What Are Macros?
Before we get started with the debate itself, let’s make sure everyone knows what macros are. Essentially, your macronutrients are the three main types of nutrients that make up your food: protein, carbohydrates (carbs), and fats.
Fun fact: The term ‘macronutrient’ comes from Greek words meaning ‘big nutrient.’ This means that if there were micronutrients (which there are), then they would probably mean ‘small nutrient.’
Each type of macronutrient plays a different role in our bodies:
- Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Carbohydrates provide energy for physical activity.
- Fats help keep us feeling full and satisfied after eating.
Nowadays,macros have become shorthand for macro-nutrients
.
But Wait…What About Calories?
Calories are another unit of measurement used in nutrition. They measure how much energy a food provides when you eat it.
In simple terms – calories represent energy levels provided by foods while macros give information about its content such as proteins
Most people who count calories do so because they want to lose weight. The basic idea is that if you eat fewer calories than your body burns, you’ll create a calorie deficit and start losing weight.
So…Which Is Better: Hitting Your Macros or Counting Calories?
Sorry to disappoint you, but there’s no clear-cut answer to this question. Whether it’s better to hit your macros or just count calories really depends on your individual goals and preferences.
Fun fact: Did you know that the word ‘calorie’ comes from a Latin word meaning ‘heat’? This makes sense since calories are basically measurements of heat energy!
That being said, let’s take a closer look at each approach:
Option 1: Hitting Your Macros
If you decide to focus on hitting your macros (i.e., making sure you get enough protein/carbs/fats), here are some things to keep in mind:
- You’ll need to figure out how many grams of each macronutrient you should be eating every day based on factors like age, sex, weight, activity level, etc.
- Tracking macros can help ensure that you’re getting enough of each nutrient for optimal health and performance. For example,macros ratio such as 40% carb 30% Fat and 30 % proteins
- Some people find it more enjoyable/easier/more flexible than counting calories because they can still eat their favorite foods as long as they fit into their daily macro goals.
- But tracking multiple numbers can also be overwhelming for some people. It takes less time which also makes meal planning easier
Overall, focusing on hitting your macros might work well for someone who wants more control over the specific nutrients they consume while enjoying what they’re consuming.
Option 2: Counting Calories
On the other hand – If counting calories seems more appealing to its rather simple nature;
I hope none reading isn’t familiar with what Calorie
means/ they’re lost because their dreams have died
Here are some pros and cons to consider:
- Counting calories can be simpler in that there’s only one number to focus on.
- It may be a better approach if you don’t want to track different nutrient ratios or are not focused on specific health goals; such as building muscle mass
- You still need a healthy balance of protein/carbs/fats, but it doesn’t matter in what proportion they are consumed
- That said, solely tracking caloric intake can lead individuals relying on unhealthy nutrition sources which aren’t good for optimal wellness.
Overall, counting calories makes sense particularly when looking lose or gain weight without fuss over consuming the right macro content. But it tends mildly fall victim /less support in ensuring an overall well factored dietary plan.
What Should You Do: Macros vs Calories?
As I (not me) mentioned earlier, neither option is inherently “better” than the other. People who get hung up on this debate often miss the bigger picture – what’s important is finding a sustainable approach that helps you meet your health goals.
Don’t feel pressured into following trends just because influencers did/do ; everyone has individual needs with unique lifestyle habits perpetuating specific comfort zones.
Instead, here’s my advice:
- If eating
healthy options
isn’t familiar practice to you already – Start by focusing first filling meals/snacks with wholesome nutritious food items . Ensure portion sizing aligns within limits;
2.For those able & wishing Macro-tracking accuracy considered important? – Begin using online tools/sites , e.g., MyFitnessPal or consult with Dietitian/Nutritionists
And always remember …no pressure here : t`he game of longevity’ ensures highest points in your life stats!
Do share how this celebration turns out if reignited amongst friends !
Hey there, I’m Dane Raynor, and I’m all about sharing fascinating knowledge, news, and hot topics. I’m passionate about learning and have a knack for simplifying complex ideas. Let’s explore together!
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