In the context of health and fitness, macronutrients are most often defined to be the chemical compounds that humans consume in large quantities that provide bulk energy. Specifically, they refer to carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Some definitions also include water, air, calcium, sodium, chloride ions, and some other substances, along with more typical macronutrients, since they are needed in large quantities by the human body. In this calculator, we only calculate daily carbohydrate, protein, and fat needs.

Protein

Proteins are organic compounds comprised of amino acids, and are one of the types of macronutrients. Amino acids are essential to a person's well-being, and there are certain amino acids that can only be obtained through diet. These amino acids are typically referred to as "essential amino acids," and are obtained by humans and other animals through the consumption of protein.

Carbohydrates (Carbs)

Carbohydrates, often referred to as simply "carbs," are compounds that are typically classified as sugar, starch, or fiber. Sugar is the simplest form of carbohydrate, while starch and fiber are complex carbohydrates. Glucose is a monosaccharide and is one of the key sources of energy for humans, as well as other animals.

Fat

Fats are molecules that are comprised primarily of carbon and hydrogen atoms. Common examples include cholesterol, phospholipids, and triglycerides. Although fats, in the context of nutrition, are typically viewed as unhealthy, they have both structural as well as metabolic functions, and are a necessary part of the human diet.

Important: The results above are a guideline for more typical situations. Please consult with a doctor for your macronutrient needs if you are an athlete, training for a specific purpose, or on special diet due to a disease, pregnancy, or other conditions.

Macro Calculator

Protein

Carbohydrates (Carbs)

Fat