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

Oct 19

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: