Welcome back to Let's Chat, Diets. In this episode, we discuss If It Fits Your Macros (IIFYM). The core premise of this diet is simple. You are given numbers to hit in terms of fats, protein and carbs and as long as you hit them you are following the diet. Sound appealing right? Eat whatever you want and as long as "it fits your macros" you're in the green. 

 

This is where it gets a bit questionable. If people just throw things like micronutrients out the window and as Tom says on the episode "smash a few protein shakes and then eat chocolate and pizza" yes you're hitting your macros but at what health cost? As we always say EDUCATION is crucial.

 

We discuss one of the big names and that is the popular https://www.iifym.com/. The problem is they draw you in with calculating your macros for free however if you want the further advice (that we think is crucial) then it's going to cost. The language used is important and websites like these follow the trend of big bright colours, loads of buzzwords and it's all about appealing to masses rather than helping. Example "No foods are off-limits! As long as it fits your macro requirements, you can eat whatever you like." Is taken directly from their website. If you buy their meal plans then great as they'll steer you towards more nutritious however if not and you take this language as gospel you might go "rouge" as Tom calls it. To further support my point on the language they offer programs such as "IIFYM Booty Storm", "IIFYM Laser Legs" and "IIFYM Tummy Toner". If you want our thoughts on the world of "toning" then check out our episode on it! Let's Chat, Myths: Toning Muscle.

 

Spoiler alert but we essentially concluded that this could be beneficial to those who have a good understanding of nutrition. This will aid in ensuring that the right foods are being consumed to meet macro AND micronutrients. Tom gave a good rule of thumb in the episode. 80% wholesome nutritious food and then 20% for "fun" foods. This just aids in sustainability and that's crucial for long term dietary success.