What is a macro?
First off, macros are short for macronutrients. Macronutrients are the 3 staple nutrients that you consume each day for energy: proteins, carbs, and fats. So, when you are counting these macros you are counting the grams of proteins, carbs, and fats that you are consuming each day.
But WHY should I count macros?
Keeping track of your macros not only helps you ensure that you are getting in the correct amount of protein your body needs to either build or hold onto your muscle mass, but it also helps you ensure that you are taking in enough carbs and fats to FUEL your physical activity each day.
I know what you are thinking, “So, calories don’t matter?” No, calories DO matter. You need to count calories of each macronutrient individually!
Macro counting helps you to:
- Maintain/build lean muscle mass.
- Lose body fat.
- Keep your body satisfied.
- Improve performance parameters.
- Improves absorption and utilization of vitamins and minerals.
Sign me up! How do I know how many macros to eat?
This varies depending on your gender, age, body composition, personal goals, activity level, mode of exercise, and so on. The first step you can take to determine your macros without the help of a nutrition coach is to use a nifty macro calculator! The NSCA recommends individuals, who engage in fitness activities, to consume 1.2-2 g/kg of body weight of protein per day, 5-7g/kg of body weight of carbs per day, and the rest of their calories from fat. This breakdown ensures that you are fueling your broken-down muscles from your training with an optimal amount of protein, recovering and fueling your body with needed energy from carbs, and providing enough fats to help your body with nutrient absorption of vitamins and minerals.
Energy and Macronutrients
Now, how can counting macros help you with your energy? Well, the energy expended each day comes from these 3 macronutrients that we consume from foods. The energy at your disposal is directly proportionate to your macronutrient consumption. But there is a way to enhance your energy levels without increasing calorie intake. I know what you are thinking – “How can I improve my energy each day even further to feel the absolute BEST that I can, without increasing calories?”. Well, you’re in luck! 10 Performance has a wonderful B complex supplement to help you with this goal! The BBC (Bound B Vitamin Complex) contains vitamins B3, BG, B9, and B12. This combination of vitamins helps ensure your body is absorbing and utilizing high quality B vitamins in perfect proportions to optimize absorption and utilization of the macros. BBC enhances energy naturally, supports the nervous system, and is essential for a well-functioning healthy metabolism. Who’s ready to feel ENERGIZED?