· 2 min read
5 Reasons why I DO NOT count calories!
By Melissa Colborne, Registered Dietitian
I’m a Registered Dietitian and here are 5 reasons why I do not count calories!
1. Food is more than just a number
Counting calories is like focusing only on the scoreboard and not the game. Yes, calories matter, but there's more to food than just numbers. Think of it like getting a mix of nutrients from food, not just obsessing over hitting a specific calorie target.
2. One size does NOT fit all
We are all as unique as our personalities. Counting calories treats everyone like they're the same, ignoring stuff like metabolism, lifestyle, and health conditions. It’s important to listen to your body rather than aiming to hit a specific number.
3. Enjoying food WITHOUT guilt
I'm all about appreciating your food, enjoying the flavors, and not feeling guilty about it. If you are always concerned about the number of calories in food, it can take the enjoyment away from eating and negatively affect your relationship with food.
4. Nutrition is more than just weight loss
Food isn't just about losing weight, it's about being healthy overall. Eating a variety of foods supports your immune system and overall health, and keeps you feeling good. Yes, being in a calorie deficit is important if your goal is weight loss but it is possible to lose weight WITHOUT counting calories and this is what I teach in my 1-on-1 coaching.
5. Can create to unhealthy behaviors
Counting and tracking every calorie that you put into your mouth can create obsessive behaviors which are not sustainable in the long run.Do you really want to be doing this for the rest of your life? I prefer to focus on portion control and eating mindfully to develop healthy habits that are sustainable in the long run.
Instead of counting calories, I want to encourage you to focus on eating a variety of whole, minimally processed foods, and enjoying balanced meals that provide the necessary nutrients your body needs to THRIVE! This will help you build a healthy relationship with food and achieve your goals in a sustainable way.
Are you are stuck in the yo-yo dieting cycle or can't to let go of calorie counting?
