Are tracking macros even important?

Chuchiiee

I have been loosely considering getting my macros under control. I've been kind of flirting with that idea.. but when I look at my diary... I just laugh. It's impossible. I'm vegetarian and eat at a deficit. The only thing I care about at the moment is my protein content which I average anywhere from 80-90 grams per day.

That being said. My sources of protein comes from tons of legumes. LEGUMES EVERYWHERE...and a daily protein shake. I still make my deficit but my carb content is usually around 50-65% with my protein being usually 23-29%. Then whatever is left is fat. Also. I don't eat much processed carbs btw. All of this is complex carbs.

I hear people talk about this 40-40-20 ratio... is it this some kind of ideal thing? Should I strive for this? I mean I feel I could if I drank nothing but protein shakes (the ratio in my protein shakes are pretty close to this 40-40-20 ratio) all day but sadly.. I actually like to eat my nutrients and not drink it.

mamahannick

The one I keep my eye on the most is protein. I try to hit a certain protein goal each day, then I let the carbs and fats fall where they fall. I have my ratio set to 40c/30p/30f I think, and I'm usually pretty close. Whatever works for you, there is no across-the-board ideal ratio.

Lizzy622

You answered your own question. Yes they are important. But the ratio is very different for each person.

Via88

I agree I think protein is the most important, I have my goals for 40% protein 35%fat and 25% carb because my body doesn't do well with carbs. I usually get pretty close but yes somedays are off, I say just do the best you can but concentrate mostly on protein, especially if you are working out alot.

TR0berts

Percentages are meaningless.

Not knowing your stats, your protein goal is probably pretty good. About 0.8-1.0 grams of protein per pound of lean body mass is a good general goal. Depending upon your deficit, that may be 20%, 25%, 30%... And 0.3-0.35 grams of fat per pound of total bodyweight is generally recommended. The rest can be carbs, alcohol, more protein, more fat, or (most likely) some combination of the above.

Here's a good thread to explain things a little better: http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/819055-setting-your-calorie-and-macro-targets

Francl27

I only care about protein.

willdob3

I make sure I get the right number of grams of protein so I can maintain my LBM while losing fat. I also make sure I get enough fat. Protein & fat are extremely important for our bodies to function. I really don't pay much attention to carbs because mine are almost all vegetables & there is no science-based nutritional requirement for carbs.

I agree that percentages are not important but getting the number of grams we need is important. Those numbers are different for everyone based on body composition.

bcattoes

That being said. My sources of protein comes from tons of legumes. LEGUMES EVERYWHERE...and a daily protein shake. I still make my deficit but my carb content is usually around 50-65% with my protein being usually 23-29%. Then whatever is left is fat. Also. I don't eat much processed carbs btw. All of this is complex carbs.

This sounds like a healthy diet. Unless you are experiencing some type of problem with diet, I'd say you are doing just fine.

mschicagocubs

I think it is also a matter of preference. As long as you are losing, you shouldn't change anything until you stall. Then maybe you can alter how many grams of carbs or sugar you consume.

& ditto to protein.