As a Macro/Nutrition Coach, I get a lot of people asking me....."so what do you do?" "What are Macros?" "No, I've never heard of Flexible Dieting." So,I think it's time we clear some things up! To start, "Macros" is short for macronutrients, which are the largest group of nutrients that you take in your diet. Macros are made up of:
- Protein
- Fat
- Carbohydrates
A brief explanation of why you need these nutrients in your diet is this. Protein repairs and regenerates body tissue, cells, manufactures hormones, aids your immune system and preserves lean muscles and promotes growth.
Fat is important in your diet because it is necessary for brain development, cell functioning, it protects and cushions your bodies internal organs, and helps your body absorb important vitamins. It also gives food taste!
Carbohydrates break down glucose in your body, its your bodies primary energy source. It helps your brain, central nervous system, kidneys, and muscles all function properly.
You need all 3 of these nutrients in your diet. You also need them in specific amounts. Which is where someone like myself, is able to help you determine what ratio specifically to your body, is the best amount for proper functioning. This ratio is very important when trying to achieve fat loss, muscle gain, or general maintenance of your body weight.
Flexible Dieting? What is this? First off, it's NOT a diet! It is a lifestyle. In a nutshell, you are given a daily calorie, macro breakdown of carbs, protein, and fat. You need to hit the amount you are given. As long as your numbers are achieved, then the food selection is up to you! An example is this: 150C / 42F / 140P (C=carbs, F=fat, P=protein) Let's pretend that is your Macro Count for the day. You get to pick whatever foods you want to fulfill those numbers. You need 150C....you could get those from sweet potatoes or Frosted Flakes cereal. As long as you don't go over 150g of Carbohydrates it doesn't matter where they come from!
Let's break it down further. Using those numbers above, say you have eaten all your meals for the day, but you are left with 26C / 6F / 1P.......you could fill these either way. One, with a Hostess Chocolate Cupcake which has those exact numbers or 82g of Banana and 15g of Cookie Butter spread on it. Either option is up to you! You just have to hit your Macro Count!
IIFYM: If it Fits Your Macros - pretty self explanatory..... :)
Do you need to count calories if you are counting Macros? Nope! Just hit your Macro Count. You will be staying within a certain amount of calories by hitting those numbers.
I hope this helps clear up some confusion! Email me if you have any specific questions! VanessaSimFit@gmail.com