What are Macro's???

Think about it...What do people mean when they talk about their "macros"?

I figured this would be a good topic to discuss since I have recently started a ketogenic diet. If you are familiar with this type of diet you are probably familiar with what macro's are, since keeping track of them is so important. However, no matter what type of diet you consume, you should be keeping track of yours.

"Macro" is short for macronutrients. Macro meaning large. So, this would be your proteins (as Vader is helping himself to above), fats and carbohydrates. You can go online and find out how many grams of each you should be consuming per day based on the type of diet you want. Now, there are recommended amounts, but to do it right you should find a macro calculator online. With one of these you can input your height, weight, activity level and what your goals are with your diet. So, it is all individually based.

Carbohydrates, I wont touch on because there is a previous blog post on discussing their importance. Fats get a bad rap; however, there are good fats and bad fats. Fats are needed for health at a cellular level, as well as, energy and other things. To be safe you should stay away from trans-fats. Also, limit the amount of saturated fats you consume. Unsaturated fats are where it's at. Just be careful because there are more calories per gram of fat than in protein and carbs. Fish, avocado, almonds and olive oil are your best fats. Ok fats would have to be milk/dairy and animal fats found in meat.

The reason we need protein is to get amino acids which are the building blocks of protein for your own body. Protein is good for growth and preserving muscle. Now, there are essential amino acids and there are nonessential amino acids. The essential amino acids are ones we need to consume or get from our diet. Nonessential means that our body can make them on its own. All animal based proteins consist of all the essential aminos you'll need and most, not all, plant based forms of protein do not. So, it is easier to get all of your essential amino acids by eating meat. However, completely your choice.

What are your macros?

If you have any questions about your diet or what your macros should be give us a call and we'll set up with a consultation.