Macronutrient Balance Can Help Control Feelings of Hunger

If you have ever tried a low-carb diet, you know there are endless ways to balance your carbohydrate intake to lose weight. The key to long-term success is to have a weight loss professional personalize menus to achieve an ideal balance of macronutrients. Oversized processed food containers and Big Gulps have distorted what we know to be a portion size. Even though you may feel you are eating healthy, it is important not to eat more than an appropriate portion size. Balancing macros references your intake of protein, fat and carbohydrates.

• The king of macros for fitness freaks is protein. It is normally associated with building and repairing muscle tissue, but its uses extend beyond the gym, as it is the core component of all tissues in the body including organs, bones, hair and enzymes. It is important to make sure you balance your protein intake throughout the day to avoid hunger pangs.
• If you are like most people, you were told to avoid all fats. Nowadays, researchers know you only need to avoid or limit consumption of certain types of fat. Essential fats are a necessary component of any healthy menu plan. Fats in nuts and fatty fruits also contain fiber and beneficial micronutrients to keep you healthy.
• Due to your body's glycemic response, carbohydrates have a wide range of effects on blood glucose concentrations during digestion. Some foods cause a rapid rise in blood sugar followed by a rapid fall, while other foods result in a slow extended rise and fall. Healthy veggies provide a slower release for an energy supply that lasts longer.

As you start a weight loss program, your macronutrient ratios and overall intake of calories will continually change. It is, however, essential for you to make the necessary adjustments in the foods you eat. Your body will burn some calories and store others as fat. You will find that certain macronutrient ratios can fill you up on fewer calories while prolonging feelings of satiety. That's because stable blood sugar and stable energy levels can help you resist the urge to overeat or snack on junk food.