Protein, Carbs, Fat

lauren28178

Hi!

Should I be mostly concerned with staying at my calorie amount, or really pay attention to the carbs, fat, protein too?? I've tried losing weight before of course, and was overwhelmed with all of the things I had to pay attention to. Choosing healthy foods and staying at my calorie range would be ideal for me- just wanted to check! It seems I somehow keep going over a little bit on protein and fat. Thanks!!!!

Dagoth

Calories are what's mostly important. Macros are somewhat important but nowhere near as important as calories.

heatherrose9

once you get closer to your goal, protein, carbs and fat become more important. BUT I think if you start by just paying attention to calories, it'll eventually come to you what fills you up and what makes your body feel better. then protein, carbs and fat will fall into place. start with calories-try and eat the least amount of processed foods as possible, and then check yourself out in the mirror;-)

toysbigkid

bumping...not sure about that but would be nice to find out

ChelseaM18

One step at a time when you feel you've got control over your calorie intake and can stay within it, try focus in on your macros which you can learn to tweak here and there to your advantage to hit through a plateau you might experience

Good Luck

toysbigkid

my calories are always under but my sugar and carbs are over because of the fruit I eat

sab53

Calories in vs. calories out is the most important consideration. However, figuring out how to use those calories can make the difference in your energy levels and how full you feel. Fiber rich foods such as whole grains as well as high protein foods help to keep you full. Sugars in fruits and veggies are great sources of energy as well and help you to feel full longer than say a candy bar.

lauren28178

Thanks so much everyone!!!

vicki81868

When I first started, I just tracked calories until using MFP was more of a habit. But when I stalled a bit, I focused on the percentages without changing the calories at all, and started losing again. The percentages are important. And changing them periodically, can help with the plateaus.

sab53

I usually go way over in the amount of protein I take in. But that's only because I'm trying to build muscle as well as lose fat. My brother is a personal trainer and he knows my genetics are against me as far as my metabolism is concerned. So he suggested a high protein program for me, because more muscle mass increases the BMR.