Question to those who pay attention to macros?

[HairyKnees]

I decided to start eating healthier. I downloaded an app and set 1200 calories as my goal and my macro goals were 50% carbs, 30% fat and 20% protein.
So I logged my food in and made sure that I get as close to my goals as possible (I had 47% carbs, 26% fat and 27% protein).

So my question is.. isn't it too much effort to pay attention to macros? If you do, do you also use an app or do you just eat whatever is healthy and believe that you had the right amount of protein, fat and carbs?

Thanks 🐸

[tony72722]

Well first off your macros are fcked. It should be 40% Protein 40% Carbs 20% Fat. I used my fitness pal when I was competing in bodybuilding. It has a barcode scanner so it makes things pretty easy. Eventually you get to a point where you can look at a meal and calculate the macros in your head.

[HairyKnees]

Thanks, that makes sense!! Woah 40% protein? 😵 are you sure that this isn't too much? Because unlike you I am not into bodybuilding

[tony72722]

I realize that but you will become much more lean if you eat 40% instead of 50% carbs. 50% carbs for a girl? Hell no. I wouldn't even eat that much when I was trying my hardest to bulk up. The 40/40/20 is a general rule of thumb. Works well for everyone.

[HairyKnees]

I thought that it's okay since that's what mfp suggested 😅 I'll see what I can do!

[tony72722]

Yeah my fitness pal has some cringeworthy ratios. Just trust me on the 40/40/20. You'll get lean.

[HairyKnees]

thanks :) I appreciate your help

[tony72722]

Np. Glad I could help

[CourtJester]

What are you using? Myfitnesspal? I believe htting macros is beneficial to a healthier life in the long run. Helps you avoid "empty" calories.

[HairyKnees]

Yes, I use myfitnesspal!! And I agree, I think it does matter where your calories are coming from

[neoagent1]

First of all why in the world are you trying to diet so much? YOur profile picture pretty much says you're eating OK and/or exercising plenty.

[HairyKnees]

Thank you!! But lol no, I used to be like 5kg lighter. I just want to feel better about myself

[ihatethiswebsite]

I generally eat the same thing every day so I don't have to always count them. I generally have a pretty good estimate of what I've ate though

[HairyKnees]

Ah makes sense, thank you :)

[ihatethiswebsite]

Keeping exact track everyday would drive you crazy lol

[HairyKnees]

Indeed hahah

[ihatethiswebsite]

I think 40 percent protein is too much going by that one guys answer. I think 30 percent is a much better number to aim for. I personally go for 40 percent carb, 30 percent fat, and 30 percent protein

[HairyKnees]

yeah, when I hit 27% protein it didn't seem like too little protein at all... And by the way I don't eat meat or fish and I am not a fan of cheese so I can only get my protein from eggs, beans, milk/yogurt and tofu

[Anonymous]

You don't need to COUNT macros but do have an estimation in your head. I count my macros meticulously because it's fun and I like working for a goal but you can just go off from your head.

[HairyKnees]

I can't really estimate yet 😁 but I might do that once I get an idea of what's healthy !! I'll take me a while