Body · Nutrition basics
What are macros?
The short version
Macros — macronutrients — are protein, carbohydrate and fat. They're where your food energy comes from.
Protein ≈ 4 kcal per gram, carbs ≈ 4, fat ≈ 9. Alcohol ≈ 7, if you're counting.
The full version
Why they matter
Calories mostly decide weight change over time. The mix of macros affects muscle, training fuel, fullness and how you feel.
Do you need to count them?
No. Some people like numbers; others build balanced meals and adjust portions. Both work.
What actually matters
- 01Three macros: protein, carbs, fat
- 02Calories first, protein next
- 03Counting is optional
- 04Missed your macros by 12 grams? You'll survive.
Related
RELATEDView sources
Sources are being reviewed and will be added here. We'd rather list nothing than list something we haven't checked.