What are macros and why you should care about them!
Mar 11, 2024If you had asked me 5 years ago about macros I would have looked at you like you had 10 heads.
I may have heard the term "macros" but had no understanding of what that meant or how important it was for me to be aware of, especially with goals of weight loss and feeling my best in my everyday life as a busy Mom.
Now after having the knowledge I do about macros, I really wish I had know all of this sooner. Once I understood the importance of macros I started losing my baby weight much easier, feeling better and more energized, and feeling more confident about the foods I was putting on my plate!
I want the same for you, so let's dive in!
What in the heck are macros?
- Macros, short for macronutrients, are the three main components of our diet that provide us with energy.
- These include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
- Each plays a unique role in our body and contributes to our overall health and well-being.
Carbohydrates
- Often referred to as 'carbs', are your body's primary source of energy.
- These are found in a variety of foods including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
- When you consume carbs, your body breaks them down into sugars which is then used as fuel for your body's cells.
Protein
- Are essential for building and repairing muscle tissues, supporting your immune system, and producing enzymes and hormones.
- They're the building blocks of our body and play a crucial role in every cell.
- Some common sources of protein include meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, legumes, and tofu.
Fats
- Are just as important in our diet as proteins and carbs.
- They're important for hormone production, provide energy, and help keep you satiated longer.
- Healthy fats are a crucial part of a balanced diet and can be found in foods like nuts, seeds, nut butters, avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish.
Let's dive deeper into why you should care about macros and how they impact various aspects of your health and well-being:
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Energy Levels:
Macros provide the fuel your body needs to function optimally. Carbohydrates, in particular, will provide you quick energy which of course is needed since I am sure you are constantly on the move. By balancing macros, it will ensure that you will have sustained energy throughout the day to keep up with your hectic schedules.
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Mood Regulation:
What you eat significantly impacts your mood. Balanced macros help stabilize blood sugar levels, which in turn will prevent mood swings and promote a more stable emotions. For example, incorporating sufficient protein and healthy fats into meals will help you feel more satisfied and avoid the energy crashes often associated with sugary snacks.
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Weight Management:
Understanding macros is key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. By balancing protein, carbohydrates, and fats, it will support your metabolism, promote muscle growth, and regulate your appetite. This can be particularly beneficial if you are looking to shed post-pregnancy weight or simply maintain a healthy body composition while navigating your busy life.
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Nutrient Density:
Balancing macros will ensure that you're not only meeting your energy needs but also consuming a wide range of essential nutrients. Each macro provides unique health benefits, from protein's role in muscle repair to fats' contribution to hormone production. By prioritizing nutrient-dense foods that contain a balance of macros, it will support your overall health and well-being.
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Empowerment through Knowledge:
Understanding macros will empower you to take control of your nutrition and make informed choices about what to eat. By knowing which foods are rich in protein, carbohydrates, and fats, you will be able to easily create meals that support your health goals and properly fuel you for your busy lifestyle.
As you can see, macros play such a crucial role in supporting your overall health and well-being, they impact everything from energy levels and mood to weight management and nutrient intake.
By balancing macros and making informed choices, you can optimize your nutrition to thrive both physically and mentally, even amidst the challenges and chaos of your busy Momma schedule.
Want more help with macros - grab my freebie - Macros for Moms: 5 Simple Ways Kickstart Your Journey