By Dr. Ryan Kneessi, ND — licensed naturopathic doctor in Maryland · Move Forward Natural Health, Odenton, MD (in-office and telehealth visits) · Last reviewed: October 9, 2026
Quick answer: To track keto macros, set targets for net carbs, protein and fat, log what you eat in an app or spreadsheet, and record your weight and how you feel. Review weekly: if progress stalls or you feel unwell, adjust your carbs, protein or calories gradually, ideally with your provider.
Setting macro targets
Start with the keto macro calculator. These ranges are general education, not a prescription; your needs depend on your health, medications and goals, so personalize them with your provider.
Tracking your macros
- Use a food tracking app or a simple spreadsheet
- Log foods as you eat them, including oils and sauces
- Track net carbs, protein, fat and total calories
- Record weight, energy, sleep and symptoms
Sample tracking columns
- Date
- Meal and foods
- Net carbs
- Protein
- Fat
- Calories
- Weight
- Notes (energy, cravings, sleep)
Adjusting your macros
- Review your log weekly
- If weight stalls, check hidden carbs and portion sizes
- If you feel weak, check electrolytes and protein
- Make one change at a time
Healthy aging lens
Tracking for a few weeks teaches you portion sizes and food patterns that last. See measuring your results.
When to see a naturopathic doctor
- You have diabetes or take insulin, sulfonylureas or SGLT2 inhibitors (risk of low blood sugar or ketoacidosis)
- You take blood pressure medication or diuretics
- You have kidney, liver, gallbladder or pancreas disease, or high cholesterol
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of disordered eating
- You want a keto plan tailored to your labs and goals
See a medical provider promptly for nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, fruity-smelling breath with rapid breathing, or very high blood sugar or ketone readings, which can signal ketoacidosis.
Want a keto plan that’s safe for your health?
A free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Kneessi. No cost, no obligation. In-office in Odenton, MD or by telehealth.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to track macros on keto?
It helps, especially at first.
What’s the best way to track?
An app or spreadsheet, whichever you’ll use consistently.
How often should I adjust my macros?
Review weekly and make small changes.
Should I count calories too?
Calories still matter for weight change.
Sources
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace an individual evaluation. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting supplements or changing medications, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or managing a health condition.
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