Chances are you've heard the phrase "counting macros" or "tracking macros" before if you pay any attention to the fitness industry, but what does a "macro" even mean? Let's simplify it.
When people say "macros", they're rereferring to macronutrients.
The prefix ‘macro-’ means large. The word ‘nutrient’ signifies a substance that provides nourishment essential for growth and maintenance of life. Together, ‘macronutrients’ are the nutrients that the body requires in large quantities in order to function optimally.
There are 3 main macronutrients:
Protein
Fats
Carbohydrates
Each macronutrient has very specific and vital functions in the body. They also provide the majority of energy for your body in the form of calories.
Protein: 4 calories/gram
Fat: 9 calories/gram
Carbohydrates: 4 calories/gram
Example: let's say your protein bar is 20g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 10g fat.
(20g protein x 4 calories) + (20g carbohydrates x 4 calories) + (10g fat x 9 calories)
Calories = 250
As a reminder, calories = energy. Our bodies are intricate vessels that require energy in order to survive and execute all the things we do every single day from breathing, to thinking, and eating, etc. Macronutrients are the energy we require to live.
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-Mandi.
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