If It Fits Your What?!

If It Fits Your Macros (IIFYM-counting macronutrients) has become a big trend in the fitness industry.IIFYM has many pros and cons and may not be the best option for everyone, but is becoming more widely used.

Macronutrients is really just an all-encompassing term for carbs, fat, and protein.Your intake levels of each can help you reach your goals easier or faster, or help break a plateau.Tracking macros is essentially a more specific and beneficial alternative to counting calories. When you only count calories, you could actually be taking in foods that are working against your body and goals, rather than for them.For example, by simply tweaking your intake of protein and carbs, you could see a drastic change in your weight and leanness.

Pros

IIFYM helps you have a more balanced and maintainable lifestyle.Instead of not being able to go to a restaurant for dinner because you’re on a diet, you can look at nutrition facts and eat within your macro goals.Those who practice strict clean diets may also find themselves having more cravings or even having binging episodes.When utilizing IIFYM correctly, you can satisfy your cravings while not derailing your progress.With IIFYM, there are no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ foods, which tends to be a mentality those on strict diets start to take.For some, tracking macros is seen as a fun and maintainable way to stay on track since they can still enjoy the foods they love without sacrificing goals.

Cons

While macronutrients and overall caloric intake are important, micronutrients cannot be ignored.It is essential to your health to take in enough vitamins, fiber, etc.Not paying attention to other nutrition factors could cause health-related issues dealing with digestive issues and overall well-being.A factor that makes IIFYM more difficult than restrictive eating is the need to be disciplined.For some, they cannot have just one cookie, but feel the urge to eat the entire box.There is also the time that must be put in.Foods should ideally be weighed/measured and tracked, usually in an app.It can also be difficult, as IIFYM is seen like a puzzle to some, trying to figure out which foods can be eaten throughout the day to hit goal numbers.

IIFYM continues to be highly debated in the industry and may or may not be your best option.Before making a decision, do your research or hire a coach or trainer that is well-versed in both IIFYM and clean eating to help you decide which option may mentally and physically be the best fit for you.