How many calories does each macronutrient have?
Each macronutrient corresponds to a specific calorie amount per gram:
- Carbohydrates have 4 calories per gram
- Proteins have 4 calories per gram
- Fats have 9 calories per gram
How many macros should I eat?
There’s really no answer to this question: Every person is different, and as such, every person’s preferable macronutrient intake will be different. However, the federal dietary recommendations suggest this macronutrient ratio:
- 45 to 60% carbohydrate
- 20 to 35% fats
- Remainder from protein
The federal suggestion is based on the fact that carbs serve as the body’s main fuel source, and are the easiest macronutrient for the body to convert from food into energy. The metabolic processes for fat and protein are much more complex and take longer, which wouldn’t serve you well when you need quick energy.
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