The Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Ranges (AMDR) for the energy-yielding nutrients are generous. Describe the group of people who would benefit from the lower limits of each range—for carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. Which groups of people would benefit from the higher limits of each range—for carbohydrates, fats, and proteins?

Answer 1

The AMDR for carbohydrates is 45-65% of total calories. A person who is very physically active will need a lot of carbohydrates to supply their muscles with glucose for ATP (energy). They may easily need 65% of all calories in the form of carbohydrates. An inactive person may only need 45% of all calories from carbohydrates since their muscles don't need as much glucose for movement.
The AMDR for fat is 20-35% of total calories. Again, a physically active person can likely eat up to 35% of their calories from fat. A person who must watch their fat intake, such as someone with high blood triglycerides or a disease that causes fat malabsorption, may want to take in only 20% of their calories from fat.
The AMDR for protein is 10-35% of total calories. Someone who engages in physically demanding activity may need more protein to maintain her muscles. She can easily keep her muscles strong by getting 35% of her total calories in the form of protein. A person with kidney disease may need to watch his protein intake and may only want to take in 10% of all calories in the form of protein.