Swipe for more ideas to ▶️▶️▶️ BUILD BALANCED MEALS! Feel free to “Mix & Match” 😜 Balanced meals are not only important for maintaining a healthy weight - they also help control appetite, optimally fuel exercise, sustain energy levels, and provide a full spectrum of nutrients. Nutrients your body NEEDS to look and feel your best. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ☝️Keep in mind, calorie needs vary greatly but this is a good starting point for the average person who’s lightly active with 30-45 minutes of exercise per day. Some people may do better on lower or higher carbs, so always listen to your body! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 👉NOW, why do we need protein, carbs, fiber and fats??? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 🥩PROTEIN provides necessary amino acids for muscle growth, repair of bodily tissues, and creation of various hormones and enzymes. A high protein diet has also been proven helpful in maintaining a healthy weight (1), partly due to its ability to suppress appetite(2) and increase daily calorie burn (3). ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 🍞CARBS are an efficient fuel source for moderate-high intensity exercise, and replenish glycogen stores for maximum endurance (4). Starchy carbohydrates (as opposed to sugary carbs) provide sustained energy and increased fullness, making them a great option for weight maintenance (5). ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 🥦FIBER is a type of carbohydrate with unique benefits to the body! Soluble fiber helps reduce cholesterol levels and foster healthy gut bacteria, while insoluble fiber helps with regular bowel movements. Fiber also helps maintain a healthy weight by suppressing appetite and leveling out blood sugar (6). Fruits and vegetables also have extra nutrients plus volume to keep you full! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 🥑FATS (emphasize monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fats) support normal hormone levels, make up cell membranes, help regulate inflammation levels (7), and help suppress appetite. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ❓Need help? I can determine YOUR optimal ratio of protein, carbs, and fats - be the goal weight maintenance, 🔥fat loss, or 💪lean gains. I also teach you how to improve your relationship with food, hack your hormones, and incorporate foods that work best for you! (see link in bio) ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Feel free to ask questions in the comments below👇