⚖️ 7 Signs Your Macro Balance Needs Adjusting

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7 Signs Your Macro Balance Needs Adjusting

Paying attention to your macronutrient balance is crucial for achieving your fitness goals. But how do you know when it's time to make changes? Here are eight signs that your current macro split might need some fine-tuning:

1. Constant Hunger If you're always hungry, especially right after meals, you might not be getting enough protein or healthy fats. These macronutrients help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

2. Low Energy Levels Feeling sluggish throughout the day? Your carb intake might be too low. Carbohydrates are your body's primary energy source, and insufficient intake can lead to fatigue.

3. Poor Workout Performance If your gym sessions are suffering, it could be due to inadequate carb intake. Carbs fuel high-intensity workouts, so ensure you're getting enough to support your training.

4. Difficulty Sleeping Too few carbs can lead to disrupted sleep patterns. A slight increase in your carb intake might improve your sleep quality.

5. Slow Recovery If you're constantly sore after workouts, you might need more protein. Adequate protein intake is crucial for muscle repair and recovery.

6. Stalled Weight Loss If your weight loss has plateaued, you might need to reduce your calorie or carb macros. 

7. Mood Swings Drastic mood changes could be linked to imbalanced blood sugar levels. Ensuring a proper balance of all three macros can help stabilize your mood.

The right macro balance may change over time depending on how your body changes and your goals. Use these signs as your indicator to reassess and adjust your macros.

Healthy Fixes for Your Sugar Cravings

Sugar cravings can be tough to manage, especially when you’re trying to stay on track with your health goals. But don’t worry; there are smart ways to satisfy those cravings while staying within your macros. Here are a few quick options:

1. Fresh Fruit: Reach for berries, apples, or oranges. They’re sweet and packed with fiber to keep you full.

2. Greek Yogurt: Add a drizzle of honey or some berries to plain Greek yogurt for a protein-packed, sweet treat.

3. Dark Chocolate: Choose dark chocolate with 70% cocoa. A small piece can satisfy your craving with less sugar.

4. Protein Smoothie: Blend protein powder with spinach, banana, and almond milk for a nutritious, sweet snack.

5. Nuts and Seeds: Snack on a handful of almonds or walnuts. Add a few dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.

6. Flavored Water or No Sugar Jello: Try having water with some slices of orange in it or sweeteners such as Mio. Sugar-free jellos can be an easy and simple way to curb your cravings as well.

Sweet Potatoes vs. Regular Potatoes: Are Sweet Potatoes Really Better?

Sweet potatoes are often touted as the superior spud. But is it really the case? Let’s break it down.

Sweet potatoes have gained a health halo, largely due to their lower glycemic index and higher vitamin A content. Regular potatoes, while sometimes vilified, are nutritional powerhouses in their own right. They're an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and resistant starch.

Nutritional Face-Off:

• Calories: Nearly identical (about 90 per 100g for sweet, 77 for regular)

• Carbs: Similar amounts, but sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index

• Fiber: Sweet potatoes edge out slightly

• Vitamins: Sweet potatoes win for vitamin A, regular for vitamin C

• Minerals: Both are great sources of potassium; regular potatoes have more iron

Choose sweet potatoes if you’re watching your blood sugar, need more vitamin A, and prefer lower glycemic index food.

Choose regular potatoes if you need a more filling option and want more vitamin C and iron in your diet.

The Verdict: Neither potato is inherently "better." The preparation method matters more than the potato type. Baked or boiled is always a healthier option.

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Publisher: Ryan Engel

Editor: Michael Pender

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