Macronutrients are molecules that our bodies use to create energy for themselves – primarily fat, protein and carbs. They are found in all foods in varying amounts, measured in grams (g) on the nutrition labels. Fat provides 9 calories per gram. Protein provides 4 calories per gram. Carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram.
When you’re trying to lose weight or achieve another fitness goal, there’s no ironclad macronutrient law for mapping out your diet plan. No macro mix can save you if you eat way too many calories or way too few.
Yet your macro mix is an important consideration. Your body type, metabolism and weekly physical activity level all have some bearing on your ideal percentages for that moment in time. But that doesn’t mean it will be the macronutrient ratio you’ll use forever. It may change if and when your body weight or body fat fluctuates, or if you run into any plateaus.