Counting Macros Can Be a Trial and Error Process

Whether you are trying to lose weight, build muscle mass or just maintain a healthier lifestyle, a macro diet goes a step further than counting calories. Since you control the ratios of carbohydrates, fat and protein, your overall goal for a deficit caloric intake will determine whether you are building or losing muscle as well as whether your body is storing or losing fat. Consuming the right balance of macronutrients, instead of indiscriminately slashing calories, will lead to better results.

• CARBOHYDRATES - Carbohydrates provide you with energy as well as supply fiber that aids with digestion and improves heart health. Complex carbs (vegetables and whole grains) provide a more sustained source of energy than simple carbs (candy, donut or soda), which are easily digested to provide a quick burst of energy.
• FAT - A menu plan that includes healthy fats helps protect organs, regulates hormone production (including estrogen and testosterone), stabilizes body temperature and provides fuel for your brain. Although you should never follow a high-cholesterol diet, it is a misconception that consuming high cholesterol foods causes high cholesterol levels in the blood. The main dietary culprits are trans fat and saturated fat.
• PROTEIN - Eating the right amount of protein helps you build lean muscles that can burn more calories when your body is at rest, thus increasing metabolism. When you do not have enough carbohydrates available for energy, your body breaks down the protein in muscles to produce glycogen. If you want to lose weight, researchers recommend adding proteins to your menu plan.

Managing macronutrients does require you to use better judgment than simply counting calories. As you start a weight loss program, your macronutrient ratios and overall intake of calories will continually change. That's why it is essential for you to make the necessary adjustments in the foods you eat. Bottom line is that exercise will not have the same pay-off without proper nutrition. If you want to maximize your results, stick with a more balanced diet and seek the help of a weight loss specialist, so counting macros isn't a trial and error process.