What Are Macros?
If you follow any fitness or nutrition influencers, you've probably heard the phrase "macros” being used a lot. It’s gained a lot of popularity and has become a bit of a buzzword. But what exactly are macros, and why do they matter so much for your health, energy, and overall wellness?
Let’s break it down in a super simple, no-fluff way.
What Are Macros?
"Macros" is short for macronutrients. These are the three main nutrients your body needs in large amounts to function properly:
Protein
Carbohydrates
Fats
Each macro plays a unique role in keeping your body running smoothly. Unlike micronutrients (like vitamins and minerals, which you need in smaller amounts), macronutrients are the big players in your diet that contribute to your energy levels, metabolism, hormone balance, and even mood.
Why Are Macros So Important?
Macros aren't just about weight loss or muscle gain — although they’re helpful for both. They're about fueling your body with intention. Let’s take a closer look at what each macro does:
Protein: The Building Block
Protein helps build and repair tissues, including muscles, skin, and even hair. It also plays a key role in hormone production and immune function. If you're active or looking to improve your body composition, protein is your best friend.
Clean protein sources: chicken breast, tofu, lentils, salmon, grass-fed beef, eggs.
Carbs: The Energy Source
Carbohydrates often get a bad rap, but they’re your body's preferred source of energy — especially for your brain. Clean, whole-food carbs help fuel your workouts, support gut health, and stabilize mood.
Clean carbs: oats, sweet potatoes, quinoa, fruits, and vegetables.
Fats: The Hormone Helper
Healthy fats support hormone production, brain health, and help you absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). They also keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Clean fats: avocados, olive oil, chia seeds, nuts, and wild-caught fish.
Why Counting Macros > Counting Calories
You can eat 1,800 calories a day and feel energized and strong — or completely drained — depending on where those calories are coming from.
Tracking macros is a smarter, more holistic way to view nutrition. It focuses on quality and balance rather than restriction. When you know your macro breakdown, you can:
Improve your body composition (more muscle, less fat)
Support hormone health
Boost your energy levels
Feel full and satisfied
How to Start Tracking Macros
If you're just starting out, here's a simple way to get going:
Calculate your macro needs. Use a macro calculator based on your goals, age, activity level, and body type.
Use a food tracker app like MyFitnessPal (I personally use MyFitnessPal) or Cronometer can help you log & track meals.
Focus on whole, clean foods. Don’t get caught up in perfection. Just aim for clean, minimally processed sources.
Macros & Holistic Nutrition
In the world of holistic health, we care not just about how food looks on paper — but how it feels in your body. That’s why a macro-balanced meal made with clean ingredients is the foundation of a wellness-focused lifestyle. What works for one person, may not sit well with you. And our bodies are always changing, that’s why experimentation and tuning into your body’s biofeedback & signals is important.
So, whether you’re a busy mom, a spread-thin entrepreneur, or simply someone trying to feel better in your body, understanding macros can help you eat with intention — not restriction.
Macros are more than a buzzword — they’re a framework that helps you fuel your body the way it deserves. When combined with clean eating, real food, and a holistic mindset, you’re not just tracking nutrients — you’re building a body that feels good every single day.
