By counting your calories, you get a better understanding of your habits and patterns so that you can adjust them step by step. In this article, we will explain exactly what calorie counting entails, how you can lose weight by counting only your calories and how to do this exactly.
What do you find out?
What Is Calorie Tracking
Calorie counting simply means that you keep track of and record everything you eat. You look at what you eat and how much you eat. You count the number of calories but also keep track of the macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins and fats). You can easily do this in a notebook or a spreadsheet, but nowadays there are also many handy food log apps in which you can keep track of your calorie intake. You can count calories to lose weight, but you can also count calories if you want to gain weight.
Lose Weight with Calorie Counting
Do you want to count calories to lose weight? Counting calories and losing weight go hand in hand. You can easily keep track of your food intake and get a clear overview of what and how much you are consuming. You learn to recognize your eating patterns and habits, which makes it easier for you to adjust them. Counting calories doesn't necessarily mean you have to go on a strict diet.
Often we tend to eat things unconsciously without really thinking about it. By keeping track of what you eat, you become more aware of what you eat and you are less likely to overeat. In addition, nutrition tracking gives you a better insight into the distribution of the nutrients you consume. Are you eating enough protein? And are you getting all the nutrients you need?
Counting calories and gaining weight
Of course, it can also be that you don't want to lose weight but want to gain it. Counting calories is also a good solution when you want to gain weight. Maybe you want to build more muscle mass. Then it's smart to count your proteins and calories. You can only build muscle when you get enough protein and calories.
How does calorie counting work?
So how does calorie counting work exactly? Keeping track of how many calories you eat doesn't have to be difficult or time-consuming. Nowadays you can easily count your calories with an app. There are plenty of free calorie counting apps that will give you a better understanding of your food intake. You scan the barcode of the product you have eaten and indicate how many grams, portions or, for example, pieces you have eaten. You can weigh the products on a scale.
Nutrition tracking, what should you pay attention to?
When you start tracking calories, there are 3 things you need to record. First of all, of course, it's important to record what you eat. Write down all the different ingredients you use in a meal and also indicate whether it is baked, boiled or fried, etc. Also, don't forget to add ingredients such as dressings, sauces or toppings.
In addition, it is important to keep track of the quantities. It's important to use the right portion sizes so that you don't overeat. Do you want to know how to best determine your portion sizes? Read our article on portion size. Finally, it's important to keep track of time. Do you find yourself often grabbing snacks at night? Then counting calories will give you a better insight into this and you can adjust these habits more easily.
Nutrition and calorie counting at Beyondfit
Have you tried 100 different diets and can't seem to lose weight on your own? At Beyondfit we help you to lose weight sustainably and our coaches will teach you everything about a healthy diet, counting calories and gaining insight into your eating patterns. Our coaches will teach you a strong foundation so that you can apply this yourself and lose weight for the long term. Request a free intake interview and work with one of our coaches to see how we can best help you.
