Let’s Talk about Macros !

You can't have one without the other. 

When it comes to fitness, exercise and nutrition go hand in hand. But let’s be real, nutrition in particular is not an easy component of fitness for most. It’s not always easy to know what to eat, how much to eat, or which foods we should limit altogether. Most of us were never really taught this stuff, and on top of that, many people in the U.S. live in what are known as food deserts or places where access to fresh, whole foods is limited. And if there is a store nearby with healthier options, it's usually more expensive and way farther than your local fast food spot.

That said, Although this is somewhat out of our control, what we can control is educating ourselves and trying to find the best options for our personal situations.

One step at a time.

So, what are macros?

The body is incredibly complex, and we’re still learning new things about its intricate design every day. Although the body needs several different types of nutrients , vitamins and even minerals to function properly, at the foundation of everything there are three key nutrients your body needs in large amounts: carbohydrates, protein, and fat. These are known as macronutrients, or macros for short.

Macros are what your body uses for energy, recovery, and overall function.

Every food you eat is made up of some combo of these three, so understanding them helps you make smarter decisions about what you're putting in your body.

Let’s break each one down:'

Carbohydrates: Your Body’s Go-To Energy Source

Carbs are your body’s favorite fuel source. When you eat them, your body turns them into glucose (sugar), which powers everything from your workouts to your brain function.

You’ll find carbs in things like fruits, veggies, rice, bread, pasta, and even sweets. But not all carbs are created equal. Whole carbs (like oats, sweet potatoes, and brown rice) give you more sustained energy, while processed carbs (think sugary snacks and white bread) can cause that crash-and-burn feeling.

For weight loss, you don’t need to cut carbs. Just focus on whole, fiber-rich ones and be mindful of how much you’re eating.

Protein: The Repair Crew

Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle, supporting your metabolism, and keeping you full longer. It’s especially important if you’re working out regularly or trying to lose weight.

You’ll find protein in foods like chicken, fish, eggs, Greek yogurt, tofu, lentils, and even some grains. It helps your body recover after workouts and keeps you feeling satisfied between meals.

Try to include a source of protein with every meal to support muscle maintenance and hunger control.

Fats: The Unsung Hero

Fats often get a bad rep but fats aren’t the enemy. They’re essential. Healthy fats support hormone function, protect your organs, and help your body absorb certain vitamins.

You can find healthy fats in things like avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish. The fats you want to avoid? Trans fats and overly processed oils found in packaged snacks and fried foods.

 Don’t fear fat. Just choose high-quality sources and remember it’s more calorie-dense, so a little goes a long way.

So How Do You Balance It All?

Here’s the truth: your macro balance depends on you. Everyone’s different. Your body type, your goals, how active you are, and even your schedule all affect what you need. Some people feel better eating more carbs, others thrive on higher fats. The key is learning to listen to your body and experimenting to find what works best for your energy and results.

A simple starting point? Aim to build your meals around all three:

• A lean protein (like eggs, chicken, tofu, or beans)

• A healthy carb (like sweet potato, fruit, or brown rice)

• A quality fat (like avocado, olive oil, or nuts)

  
  

From there, pay attention to how you feel and adjust as needed.

Food for Thought

Understanding macros doesn’t mean you have to track every bite or get super strict. It just gives you a solid foundation to make better choices and fuel your body more effectively. Start small, stay consistent, and keep learning as you go.

Because at the end of the day, fitness isn’t just about how hard you train, it’s also about how well you fuel the body you’re working so hard on.

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Don't Know Your Body Type?

Learning your body type can help give a more personalized look at what macros work best for you. Take our Body Type Quiz today to find how macros relate to your specific body type.

Body Type Quiz

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