Keeping track of your macronutrients [2] (protein, carbs, and fat) can be a great tool for weight loss, but it's not for everyone. To find out whether or not this method fits your needs, online fitness coach Jessi Jean [3] posted a helpful graphic on Instagram that shows who should and who shouldn't track macros. Before you go decide to take this route, ask yourself the following questions as written in Jessi's caption. If you answer "yes" to any of these, macro counting may not be for you.
- Am I obsessive with food? "If your answer is 'yes,' it's probably not the best idea to track every morsel you consume. It will likely lead to more obsession, potentially more binging, and more all around struggle."
- Am I relatively new to this whole fitness thing? "Yes? Then macro counting may be a little overwhelming right off the bat. Ease into it by becoming more cognizant of nutritional labels and how many grams of protein, carbs, and fat are in the foods you're already eating."
- Am I sick of macro counting and living inside MyFitnessPal? "If you're there, you've just had enough, so don't be afraid to transition to intuitive eating and learn how to trust yourself and your biological hunger and fullness cues. YES its a transition and YES it takes time, but its VERY rewarding. Like anything, practice develops the skill."
If the above sounds like you, you may want to try intuitive eating instead as you begin your weight-loss journey. It basically involves listening to your body when it's hungry and when it's full.
Here's when macro tracking is advisable:
- "You have a weight-loss deadline to meet and you're ready to buckle down, get consistent, and make it happen."
- "You're in good shape, but you want to get leaner — those last few pounds often require precision with your nutrition as small tweaks can be the difference."
- "Perhaps you're unsure what a balanced diet looks like and you're wanting to understand in more precise detail what your body's daily needs are based on your specific goals."
Sound like you? Then go for it! But remember that if it ever becomes a tedious task, it won't work in the long run [5].