Mucho Macros

By now I’m sure you’ve heard about “macros” and you probably know someone counting them. But do you know exactly what they are?

When I worked in journalism I felt like I embodied the spirit of the saying “there are no stupid questions.” I would stop many experts in their tracks to find out exactly what they meant by an acronym or phrase… I’m sorry what’s an AMRAP??

I like when things are explained simply - so that everyone can understand. So, macros…

Macros is short for macronutrients which are nutrients that provide energy and are required in large amounts to maintain body functions. Whether you count them or not, you are consuming macronutrients every day.

There are three broad classes of macronutrients: proteins, carbohydrates and fats.

Optimal nutrition depends on a balance of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.

We need all of them! Macronutrients do not have moral value.. they are not good or bad. Some people may find they do well with slightly more of one macro (for example carbs) and slightly less of another (for example fat) but it is still important that our body gets all three.

Here are some nutrient dense sources of macronutrients:

Proteins:

Beef

Chicken

Pork

Fish & Seafood

Beans & legumes

Carbohydrates:

Fruit

Vegetables

Whole grains

Fats:

Nuts

Seeds

Avocados

Just because a certain food packs a heavy punch of one type of macronutrient does not mean it is void of other macronutrients. For example eggs and cheese contain protein and fat. Meats also contain fat, while some grains also contain protein.

Determining what your own unique macronutrient breakdown can help you reach your weight, performance or body composition goals. Ask us for details!