How To Divide Your Plate

There are lots of differing opinions on how much of each nutrient type to eat and how to keep track of it all.

Tracking macros, counting calories, measuring out your foods by the tablespoon or cup…

The truth is, it doesn’t have to be time consuming or complicated.

(And you’ll be much more likely to stick to a nutrition plan if it’s not!)

Eating for a strong, lean and functional body doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming.

I’d like to give you an easy structure to follow that doesn’t force you to track or measure anything.

Here’s a very straightforward nutrition tip that works. Take your plate and divide it visually into 40%, 40%, and 20%. That’s 40% protein, 40% fibrous carbs and 20% starchy carbs. Simple.

divided plate

Remember, protein intake can be from either plant or animal sources, so it’s OK if you’re following a vegan diet. Find protein-rich foods that you enjoy and that taste good because this is not about depriving yourself.

As I mentioned before, this isn’t a low carb, high protein diet. The majority of the plate is carbohydrates, 40% fibrous and 20% starchy carbs.

When it comes to fats, it’s not necessary to avoid them, just be careful to not overdo them for calorie intake. In short, use them to cook your food or to sprinkle on top of it in small quantities.

As far as beverages are concerned, water is best. Although there’s debate over exactly how much water you should drink, you need it to survive, and it has no calories at all. Sugary drinks and other calorie-rich drinks like alcoholic beverages add a lot of calories and have very little, if any, nutritional benefit.

As you can see, eating for a strong, lean and functional body doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming.

And in fact…

Our ATHLEAN X-Factor Meal Plan utilizes what you’ve learned here to make it easier than ever to tweak your nutrition to fit your tastes and your fitness goals!