Are you tired of the endless cycle of counting calories without seeing the results you desire? Many people believe that weight loss is simply a matter of calories in versus calories out—a mathematical equation that can be solved with the right calculator. But if it were that simple, why do so many struggle to shed those stubborn pounds? As of the last count, the nutrition and dieting industry is estimated to be worth over $72 billion globally. How can that be if calories are the answer? Remember also that the processed food industry in the United States alone is estimated to be worth over $2 trillion at last glance. They are the main proponents of the CICO method and in my opinion calories are a distraction from the quality of our food. There is a machine that counts calories but they are use rarely if ever and the accuracy is highly suspect. But don’t worry, since the food companies have paid for “studies” and “science” to show their calorie method works like in this study linked below and notice the funding by food giants and Purdue University “scientists” as they contribute to nutrition policy that helps no one but the food industry and further serves to confuse the average person trying to lose weight or just stay healthy. Accuracy of Stated Energy Contents of Restaurant Foods.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4363942/

As an experienced Nutritionist with 27 years in private practice, I go back to the information I was taught early on in my career and it has worked for the majority of my people for almost three decades. We definitely need to consider the amount of food which is taken into account with macronutrients and in my opinion in a more effective manner than simple calorie counting or CICO methods. We also need to consider lab testing and uncovering other issues and understanding our client’s metabolism and emotional and behavioral issues. But an understanding of macronutrients and of food quality over quantity is something that I never dreamed would not be commonly known and accepted by 2024. I still get brand new clients who don’t know what macronutrients means. My new client is a graduate student at UCLA. She also has a history of eating disorders including anorexia. This concerns me that a graduate student in Los Angeles, is still not taught the truthful basics of nutrition. This is why I’m writing this article. For anyone who can’t go to a nutritionist or who won’t go. So they can see what our nutrition and health textbooks should be teaching.

Let’s discuss macronutrients, or macros for short. While calorie counting focuses solely on the quantity of food consumed, macros take a more holistic and honest approach, considering the quality and composition of those calories. Macros are the three main components of our diet: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Each macro plays a unique role in providing energy, supporting bodily functions, and promoting overall health.

But why focus on macros instead of calories? The answer lies in the concept of nutrient density. While calories provide a measure of energy, they fail to account for the nutritional value of foods. Macros, on the other hand, allow us to prioritize nutrient-dense foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients—key ingredients for optimal health and weight management.

By shifting our focus from calorie counting to macro tracking, we can make more informed choices about the foods we eat. Instead of obsessing over arbitrary calorie limits, we can concentrate on consuming a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins that nourish our bodies and support our goals. And the best part? No more restrictive dieting or endless calorie counting—just a sustainable approach to eating that promotes long-term success.

So, if you’re tired of the calorie counting treadmill and ready to take control of your health, consider ditching the calculator and embracing the power of macros. Your body will thank you.

How to create a macronutrient balanced diet.

To begin with macronutrient-guided eating, a good starting point is to prioritize protein intake and build your meals around it. An effective approach is to aim for approximately 1.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight, spread across three meals throughout the day. Pair each meal with 1 to 2 cups of vegetables and 30 to 50 grams of non-processed carbohydrates, such as beans, potato, fruit, or legumes. Additionally, include an appropriate amount of healthy fats to enhance satiety and flavor, preventing hunger or cravings between meals. This balanced approach not only supports muscle repair and growth but also provides essential nutrients and promotes overall satisfaction with meals. You should be able to make it four to six hours without being hungry between meals. This is just one gift of macrobalanced, nutrient-dense eating. Whether you’re on this journey independently or with the guidance of a nutritionist, focusing on macronutrient balance can be a sustainable and effective way to optimize your dietary habits. For more info join my email list and or ask for my Balance Your Macronutrients and Optimize Your Diet Guide. It’s free for now. My clients get access to it. It will be a full book soon. JuliKeene.com