May 12, 2025

 by Mike Bevard

Let’s settle a common debate:

What’s more important for fat loss—tracking calories or tracking protein?

Here’s the truth:

Calories control if you lose weight.
Protein controls what you lose.

✅ If you're not in a calorie deficit, fat loss won’t happen—no matter how much protein you eat.

✅ But if you are in a calorie deficit and not getting enough protein, your body may burn muscle along with fat. 

That’s a problem—especially if you want to look lean, feel strong, and keep the weight off long-term.

So what’s the best approach?

Track both—but if you’re only going to track one, start with calories to ensure you’re in a deficit.

Then prioritize protein to protect muscle and keep you full and satisfied.

Quick tip:

Aim for 0.7–1 gram of protein per pound of goal body weight per day.

For example, if your goal weight is 160 lbs, shoot for 110–160g of protein daily.

Need help figuring out your numbers or what that looks like in meals?

Just text me "MACROS" at 402-405-2797  I’ll walk you through it.

Get After It!
Coach Mike