How important are macros?

lilkat_0087
lilkat_0087 Posts: 55 Member
in Health and Weight Loss
Just curious about opinions on this.

I'm just trying to focus on building muscle since I'm on my last fiveish pounds and have never paid attention to the macros. I think its a bonus if I'm under but usually just shrug my shoulders if I'm way over on carbs or fat and just focus on the calories. I don't even really understand them. Will this hinder me?

Replies

  • cmeiron
    cmeiron Posts: 1,599 Member
    If you're still eating at a deficit, you can't build muscle.

    You can, however, retain muscle by incorporating resistance training into your workouts and getting adequate protein. This is partly where the macros come in; they play different roles in the body and meeting macro targets can become especially important when you're at the stage you are - more interested in recomposition than weight loss.

    Carbs = energy
    Protein = LBM retention
    Fats = hormone production/other important bodily functions

    Meet your calorie goals first, then hit or exceed your protein target (if you're using MFP settings, it's probably too low...aim for 1g/lb of lean body mass), then hit your fat goal (0.35g/lb total body mass), and then fill the rest of your day with what you like. Getting adequate carbs will help you get through your workouts.
  • britzzie
    britzzie Posts: 338 Member
    ^^^This. AND

    Some of the stuff she says can get a little nutso, but this article is great and applies to you I think.

    http://gokaleo.com/2012/09/19/body-composition-that-last-five-pounds-and-how-to-deal-with-problem-areas/
  • 43932452
    43932452 Posts: 7,246 Member
    I agree with the above replies. Let me add that protein has many benefits &
    it's a natural hunger depressant. By planning your diet w/the mfg it's nice to
    see the pie chart for your fat/carb/protein .. thus you'll know what you're
    consuming w/o being uncertain. :)

Categories