Carbs, proteins, and fats form the basis for any diet. These macronutrients (also referred to as “macros”) comprise one nutritional category called macronutrients or “macros.”

As someone working in health and fitness, you’ve likely come across macronutrient “formulas” to meet specific goals.

But are your macronutrient intake goals related to athletic or aesthetic progress, or just trying to live healthier in general, tied specifically to specific amounts and ratios of carbs, proteins, and fats?

Should You Track Your Macros? In other words:, Should YOU be Tracking your macros?

Below we’ll explore both sides of tracking macros to help you decide if it is worth doing or not.

What Are Macronutrients in Fitness? Macronutrients, also referred to as macros in fitness terminology, are the essential nutrients required by your body in order to function optimally and support various physiological functions. Macronutrients can generally be divided into carbohydrates, proteins and fats; each serving different purposes in maintaining health and fitness.

Carbs provide our bodies with energy in the form of 4 Calories per gram. They play an essential role in energy production and muscle growth. Protein also offers 4 Calories per gram and should be included when exercising to build and repair muscles post-exercise.
Fat, which provides 9 Calories per gram, is more than an energy source; it also plays an integral role in hormone production and appetite regulation.
Alcohol has an influence on your macronutrient profile as well, with 7 Calories per Gram coming primarily from starch fermentation processes. At PN, we refer to alcohol as the fourth macronutrient.

By understanding the purpose of macronutrients (and sometimes four macronutrients), you can more efficiently create a nutrition plan tailored to meet your personal goals–whatever they may be.