Are you counting macros? It can be hard to follow a strict diet, maybe that is why it should be a lifestyle, not a diet. Lifestyle changes of any kind can be difficult, but with hard work and dedication, it is definitely something that can be accomplished. Dr. Peter Hinz in Franklin, TN is a chiropractor that is passionate about healthy eating.
The macros that everyone is talking about, are short of macronutrients. These are the makeup of the protein, carbs, and fats that you eat in your everyday diet. All three of these categories add up to the macros that you are consuming, and these are what give you the energy you need to make it through the day.
How Do I Figure My Macros?
Writing down and realizing what you are eating in a day is very important. Not just for when you are trying to lose weight, just from a health standpoint. This is going to allow you to see if you are giving your body all the nutrients it needs to run properly. The foods that you consume should benefit your body and you should feel better when you are eating well.
Reading labels is very important when buying your food, but it can overwhelm people at the same time. There are 4 grams of calories in each carb and protein that we consume, and 9 grams of calories in every fat that we consume. Decide on your goal for calories and macros and do some math to figure out what your goals should be every day. For example:
- Carbs
Goal x .50 = ____ That is how many calories per carb you can consume in a day.
- Protein
Goal x .25 =_____ That is how many calories per protein product you can consume in a day.
- Fat
Goal x .25=_____ That is how many calories per fat product that you can consume in a day
- To calculate the actual number of each carb, protein, and fat you can divide your answer by the number of calories per gram.
Which Macro Is The Most Important
In our daily lives, we should always strive to eat a well-balanced diet. Our bodies depend on us to give them what they need. The protein that we consume is probably the most important one to hit each day. It is the makeup of so much in our bodies.
How Do I Lose Weight While Counting Macros?
Dr. Peter Hinz and his staff in Franklin, TN understand the struggles that people can face when trying to lose weight. It is not an easy task for many. There are many struggles and hurdles that need to be crossed. Counting macros can be very simple to follow.
You can use an app to help you calculate your macros, ones like My Fitness Pal, Fitocracy, HealthyEater, and more. To lose weight when counting your macros, you have to first discover what your count amount is. Once you do that, then you will:
- Watch Your Calories To Make Sure you Stay In Line With Them As Well
- Stay Between 10-30% Carbs
- Aim For 40-50% Protein
- Get about 30-40% Fat
Everybody is different and each plan should be tailored to your body. If you are someone who is very active you may need more in some areas, if you are not very active you may need less. Pay attention to your body and how it is responding.
What Are The Best Foods To Eat While Counting Macros?
For many people, one of the hardest things about starting a new eating plan is knowing exactly what to eat. If you are used to just making everything and anything, you are retraining your brain. Most likely you are trying new recipes and figuring out what fits into your macro goal for the day.
The internet is full of great ideas and options for healthy and nutritious food options. It is a great tool to use to give yourself some ideas of things to try, maybe even try some new foods that you never have had before. Some examples of foods to try are:
- Fruits
Strawberries, Blueberries, Apples, and Bananas
- Vegetables
Spinach, Broccoli, Avocado, and Brussel Sprouts
- High Protein Food
Beef, Chicken, turkey, Lamb, and Pork
Eggs, Cheese, and Milk
- Whole Grains
Ezekial Bread, Rye, and Quinoa
- Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, Walnuts, and Flax Seeds
How Do I Create A Good Macros Based Food Plan For Me?
The foods that we put in our bodies are supposed to make us feel good. If you are filling yourself up with empty nutrient foods, you aren’t going to feel the positive effects of nutrient-dense foods. Sit down and take some time to focus on you and your health.
- Determine Your Macro Goal
- Create An Eating Schedule
- Find Recipes
- Build A Meal Plan To Fit Your Macros
There are many factors that go into determining your macro goal number. Think about your weight, height, age, health, and goals. You can find many calculators online. All you do is put in your information and it will tell you where you should be.
What Works Best For You
Making a change in your lifestyle and diet plan can come with its challenges. It doesn’t have to be difficult. Start slow and work your way to where you want to be. Dr. Peter Hinz in Franklin, TN is a big supporter of eating the right foods for your body. If you are not happy with the way that you are eating, you aren’t going to stick with it.
Counting macros isn’t something that is going to limit you on the foods that you can have. It is going to teach you the limits that you have in quantity though. There are foods that are healthier for you than others. If those are not the ones for you, work your way up to that point.
Are you suffering from back pain, sports injury, or an accident? Did you know Chiropractic can possibly help treat these injuries?
Get in touch with Dr. Peter Hinz at Cool Springs Chiropractic today for a FREE consultation.
