Macros: What Are They And Why Do We Need Them?

Macros have become a recurring topic that I’ve been discussing with my clients recently. I’ve stressed the importance of making sure all 3 macros are consumed regularly, only to have clients ask me what exactly are macros?

Let me break things down for you and keep things short and simple.

Macros: Short for macronutrients. They’re three categories of nutrients that are essential for the body to function properly: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Function of Carbohydrates:

• Fuel for the brain

• Provides energy to muscles while regulating blood sugar 

• Stores energy within cells for later use

• Excellent source of fiber 

• Helps to fight infection 

Function of Fats: 

• Source of energy for the body and for the muscle around the heart

• Helps build cell membranes and produce hormones

• Required to absorb vitamins A, D, E, K

• Provides a protective lining around organs

Function of Protein:

• The building blocks of enzymes, tissues, organs, nerves, and muscles 

• Have an antibody structure that fights infection

• Transports oxygen around the body in the form of red blood cells

• Helps regulate metabolism

Each individual's ideal protein, carbohydrates and fat intake will vary based on age, activity level, digestive health, health goals, etc, yet a good starting point for most people is to have their daily calorie intake coming from: 40% carbohydrates, 30% fats, and 30% protein.

Below is a great chart from Nutritional Therapy Association (where I went to school) that shows from what sources you should be getting your macronutrients from:

There you have it friends!

Be sure to eat a variety of macronutrients at every meal to stay full, energized, and showing the day who’s boss.

Xo, Candice