Why are carbs important @ maintenance

Spitspot81

Just having a play about with my settings on here, debating whether to go to maintenance.

Anyway, I notice that carbs jumps up to 50% of my macros at maintenance, now I am surprised that is so high, I kinda thought it would be a fairly equal split of protein and carbs (although I guess that at maintenance not everyone is looking to build muscle).

I L.O.V.E my carbs, but think I would reduce us slightly.
Just wondering out if interested why carbs would automatically be 50%...why are they the main player in your macros at maintenance??

cwolfman13

Spitspot81 wrote: »

Just having a play about with my settings on here, debating whether to go to maintenance.

Anyway, I notice that carbs jumps up to 50% of my macros at maintenance, now I am surprised that is so high, I kinda thought it would be a fairly equal split of protein and carbs (although I guess that at maintenance not everyone is looking to build muscle).

I L.O.V.E my carbs, but think I would reduce us slightly.
Just wondering out if interested why carbs would automatically be 50%...why are they the main player in your macros at maintenance??

They default to 50% regardless of your weight management objectives...that's the MFP default.

TR0berts

They aren't particularly important at maintenance.

MFP's default macro settings are...ummm...usually not great. If you want fewer carbs? Go for it.

Spitspot81

Oh ok, I get it. So it's that they they play a particularly important role during maintenance, just that that's the default and then the individual alters accordingly. Got it..thanks

Baruchuda

Please add me as a friend! I can use all the support as I can get, post often, and love commenting on your posts.

sijomial

Macro percentages are generally less important at maintenance as your overall food allowance is greater.
I never set a carb limit or goal anyway - unless I'm doing a long cycling event when my limit is 90g per hour.

Protein and fat as minimum goals in grams and carbs as "whatever" gives you more flexibility by the way.

psuLemon

If anything, carbs should be aligned to your own satiety response and new goals. If anything though, carbs do support muscle recovery.