Calories vs. Macros?

Calories vs. Macros?

The two significant differences between counting calories and counting macros is the counting process and the food being consumed.

Calorie counting is a simple tactic and generally shows positive results.

Unfortunately, it can also be misleading. Keeping track of calories as opposed to what makes up those calories can be harmful to the body despite weight loss.

Where do those calories come from?

Think 100kcal of fries vs 100kcal of spinach. The nutrients you get from both sources differ. The fries are more calorie dense whereas the spinach is packed with goodness.

The amounts of each will also differ when on a plate.

With macro counting, you are fully aware of what is being out in your body. It is usually a well balanced diet with set amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats needed to achieve your goal.

Tracking macros is a great way to feed your body exactly what it needs, to achieve optimal results.

However, it is not nearly as easy as calorie counting since your are keeping track of very precise numbers/quantities of nutrients. .

Calorie counting is the go-to for most people but we tend to neglect where calories come from.

Both methods are great but the key is to determine which suits you best. Why not track both?

Remember though, whichever method of tracking you opt for, ensure you have a well balanced healthy diet combined with exercise.

Let’s take it back to basics before we consider either approach:

1. Are you able to look at two different food items and immediately know which is the healthiest option?

2. Are you drinking enough water?

3. Are you getting enough sleep and managing your stress levels?

4. Can you have a ‘treat’ without binging all weekend?