Follow a healthy routine is not just about counting calories and avoid eating certain foods. To really have a balanced diet, we need an essential variety of nutrients that support your body. But how can we stay healthy and still keep tabs on what we’re eating?
Specialists recommend tracking the macronutrients. This method is not only a way to track macros over calories. It’s also a healthy technique of food logging! You can figure out what food helps you focus, improve your athletic performance, and make you feel good or bad.
Here is what you need to know.
Macronutrients: Super-useful Facts
Macronutrients are nothing but just some molecules our bodies really need! These molecules are also helping us survive. How cool is this?
Macronutrients include proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Cutting out any of these macronutrients can trigger nutrient deficiencies and illness.
Proteins
Do you know that protein can repair injuries, build muscle, and destroy infections?Â
Proteins are made of amino acids, some of the most important elements in our bodies. Unfortunately, we can’t produce amino acids, so you can understand why they’re essential.
Some high-protein foods are beef, fish, cheese, poultry, and other dairy products. Vegetables are also a great source of protein!
Proteins have 4 calories/gr.
Carbohydrates
Carbs are responsible for your energy. Complex carbs, including whole grains and starchy veggies, are essential if you want to support your digestive health.
Carbs have 4 calories/gr.
Fats
We need fats, too, so our bodies can resist cold weather and long period without eating. But that’s not all.
Dietary fat can also shield our organs, promoting cell growth and hormone production.
Fats have 9 calories/gr.
How Many Macronutrients Your Body Needs?
According to the federal dietary recommendations, we’re all different, so it suggests this macronutrient ratio:
- 20 to 35 % fats;
- 45 to 60 % carbs;
- remainder from protein.
You should also know that your macro ratio depends a lot on your fitness goals and, of course, health.Â