Why "If It Fits Your Macros" Might Not Be the Best Approach for Your Health
In today’s fitness world, health bloggers, Instagram influencers, and fitness trainers often promote the idea of counting calories and comparing them across different foods. While this may seem like a convenient way to track your diet, it often misleads us into developing a distorted relationship with food—especially when it comes to "If It Fits Your Macros" (IIFYM).
You may have heard stories of people losing weight while enjoying bacon and eggs for breakfast, steak and chips for lunch, and pizza and ice cream for dinner—all because, they say, "if it fits my macros." Instagram comparisons showing a yogurt bowl filled with fresh fruits, seeds, and nuts next to a burger and fries often highlight that both meals can have the same calorie content. But is this really the best way to look at food?
The Problem with IIFYM: A Closer Look
IIFYM is based on a 1918 discovery about energy balance, which originally considered whole food consumption. However, today, IIFYM promotes consuming processed foods, refined sugars, and artificial ingredients as long as they fit into your macronutrient targets. While it might sound convenient, this approach overlooks the importance of micronutrients—the vitamins and minerals that help your body extract energy from macronutrients.
Here are some of the main concerns with the IIFYM approach:
1. Lack of Individualisation
IIFYM doesn't cater to individual needs. Simply adjusting a few grams of carbohydrates doesn't address the unique requirements of each person’s body. For personalised nutrition advice, Radiquel offers expert guidance tailored specifically to your goals. Explore our 1-1 services or 3-Week Meal Guide for more.
2. Reductionist Approach
IIFYM focuses primarily on calories and macronutrients while neglecting the role of whole foods and micronutrients in overall health. Research shows that consuming ultra-processed foods requires more calories to feel satisfied than whole, nutrient-dense foods. A plant-based diet rich in whole foods offers the nutrients you need for sustained energy and health.
3. Nutrient Quality vs. Weight Loss
While IIFYM allows indulgent foods like doughnuts and pizza, it fails to consider the long-term health implications. Losing weight doesn’t necessarily mean achieving better health. Diets high in processed, nutrient-poor foods can negatively impact cardiovascular health and other vital systems. At Radiquel, we focus on a sustainable, nutrient-dense approach that helps you feel good inside and out.
The Takeaway: Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods Over Quick Fixes
Ultimately, IIFYM appeals to those looking to maintain unhealthy food habits while achieving quick weight loss. But this method overlooks the core importance of balanced, nutrient-rich eating. For long-lasting, sustainable health, focusing on whole, plant-based foods is key.
If you're ready to make a real change and prioritize long-term health, Radiquel offers personalised plant-based nutrition plans that emphasise whole foods and micronutrients.
Don’t fall for quick fixes, choose a balanced, nourishing approach that fuels your body for the long run.
Explore Radiquel’s 1-1 nutrition services and eBooks for personalised guidance and evidence-based support on your plant-based journey.