If weight loss is at the very top of your list of resolutions for 2019, there are some important decisions you’ll have to make in order to make sure it doesn’t just stay on paper.
When it comes to weight loss, there are many different ways to tackle the issue, but one of the biggest debates will always be between dieting and exercising. If you find yourself uncertain of what to do first, I will help you clear your mind on the matter so you can start your weight loss journey on the right foot.
For the sake of specificity, today I want to focus on the macro diet. Why? Because the macro diet is all the rage right now and it definitely seems to be the best, most intelligent choice at the moment, showing excellent results.
The macro diet is much like calorie counting, but instead, you’re counting your macros, meaning the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats you consume on the daily within your calorie goal.
For beginners, counting macros offers several benefits. For one, it makes portion control more comfortable and comprehensive, it’s entirely customizable for body type and goals, and it also allows you to gain the knowledge you need to make better food choices.
Overall, being aware of your macros allows you to learn a lot about food, what it does for you, and how you can optimize your food intake so you can lose weight but also get in better shape and practice healthy eating habits.
If you want to get started on a macro diet, you need to know they require you to determine your personal calorie goal. You can do this by identifying your calorie needs and reducing that number by 10 to 20%. Once you have your calorie goal, your macronutrient ratio should be 50-25-25. That’s 50% carbohydrates, 25% protein, and 25% fat on a daily basis.
When you’re macro dieting for weight loss, you’ll need to make sure that you’re counting macros, but you’re also cutting down calories. An excellent macro ratio for weight loss could be 10 to 30% carbs, 40 to 50% protein, and 30 to 40% fat. Just remember everyone’s different and you can customize your macro ratio however you need!
Now, when it comes to exercising, you don’t need it to lose weight, but it’s definitely a fantastic compliment that provides plenty of health benefits. It’s recommended, if you’re on a weight loss journey, to exercise 3 to 4 times a week and also get into weights. If going to the gym or weight lifting is not your style, running or taking up a sport is also a great alternative.
At the end of the day, when it comes to deciding between dieting and exercise, the best thing you can do is create a balance. If you combine the power of counting macros and physical activity, you will be able to experience that amazing transformation you’re looking for!
