Keeping my Macros on track has done wonder for me! 2 kilos, 2 weeks, eating a lot!

Kindly note that this will be a long(er) reading, as I am sharing with you some details on my journey so far. Thank you 🙂

Hi All! My name is Melda, from Indonesia. This is my 2nd time back in MyFitnessPal, as I recently gained 5 kilos / 11 pounds in just a few short months (not proud, but life happened). I had been struggling with weights on and off since I was little, ranging from being overweight to having a strong body to not having the ability to maintain the healthy lifestyle, hence, going back to being overweight. A bit tired of this cycle, and planning to be smarter and more consistent in managing a healthier me

I have always been exercising regularly since decades ago, ranging from Muaythai, weightlifting, HIIT, to a local martial art (and yes, still managed to gain 11 pounds . Definitely, my relationship with food is more than just a functional need. I am an emotional eater, and food has been my go-to partner, whenever I needed support. Finally, I have accepted this relationship - I need for to be pleasurable and comforting too.

Out of the 11 pounds, I managed to reduce 2 kilos or 4.4 pounds in the last 2 weeks (still healthy), without going hungry, using medicines or doing intermittent fasting (nothing wrong with last one, I actually did this for a couple of years). The crazy part is that I eat a lot (like a lot!) yet the weight keeps dropping off. Yesterday, I finally realized that this is what people meant when they said we need to take our body to fat burning mode. I feel that I have entered the fat burning stage (hopefully!)

I would like to share with you about my journey these last 2 weeks, and hopefully, it can bring benefits to my new friends in MyFitnessPal

So simply put, I am focusing on Macros. And as my body is friendlier to protein, I am implementing a daily goal of Protein / Fat / Carbs ratio of 43% / 27% / 30%, with a goal of max 1360 calories per day (as recommended by my professional trainer). It's definitely not easy for me to eat 145 grams of protein a day, yet, I managed this by having 2 white eggs for breakfast and 2-3 chicken thighs / drumsticks for each lunch and dinner. Let me tell you - I am definitely full. 😂

I mostly eat sautéed / grilled chicken (thigh / drumstick), yet I am still enjoying deep fried chicken here and there. I eat a healthier version of rice (rice is the common form of carbs in my country). I still eat wheat biscuits almost everyday for my afternoon snacks (I am a sweet tooth), and I still eat out with my family and friends several times a week. Don’t forget about Starbucks, as I still do this a couple times a week. And btw - I just indulged in yummy chocolate pancakes and vanilla ice cream this past weekend for dessert. I still enjoy all - yet am doing that with mindfulness by keeping my macros on track.

I am full, super satisfied, and have sufficient energy throughout the day (while doing intense exercise in the morning 5-6 times / week). I am happy and enjoying life - while my body somehow continues to burn fat.

I realize that I still have quite a long way to go to be back to my healthier self, and I am eager to do so. Actually, it’s going to be a lifelong commitment, hence, ensuring to implement something that will and can last my whole life (well most of it!) will be key. I am excited and eager to do so.

While my carbs intake is under control, my next goal is to reduce my fat intake. I am just starting to combine chicken thigh with chicken breast as my source of protein in each meal. Previously, I mostly eat chicken thigh and drumstick. Let’s see how this will impact my overall results.

Focusing on macros has been doing magic for me. And fyi - MyFitnessPal works wonders with its macros and micronutrients tracking (and not, this is not endorsed at all! Purely an organic consumer input 😀). Secondly is improving my sleep. I am still learning to have better relationship with sleeping.

I am not in any capacity to say that macros will work for everyone, and I do suggest for you to discuss with your nutritionist or trainers before embarking your journey. Especially to understand the right composition for your weight and goals - please do talk to your nutritionist / trainer.

Again - apologize for the long post - I do hope that this sharing can be beneficials for your journey. All the best and have a great day, everyone!