Why You Don’t Need to Count Calories Ever Again

Take a More Realistic Approach to Dieting

Counting calories is just as bad as counting the number of grey hairs you have or the number of wrinkles on your face.  It doesn’t help you address the problem and instead makes you fixate on something that is pretty much pointless. It’s time for a new mindset, a mindset that strives for change and does so in an optimistic and positive energy manner.

In fact, when I started this blog I chose “weight loss” as a mindset I specifically wanted to break apart. If you’ve tried calorie counting you’ve probably been left feeling really hungry, and not having enough energy to get through your workouts nor recover properly.

It turns out that calorie counting only works to a point. If you’re really overweight or have issues with overeating more generally, restricting foods and hence calories obviously will help with weight management. But it’s not sustainable, and there are a lot of ways that it just doesn’t make sense.

Here’s why…

All Calories Are Not Created Equal

This is the biggest problem with calorie counting – it’s based on the idea that all that matters are calories, regardless of where they come from. But where they come from is really important. It’s true that one calorie is one unit of energy provided by food, but you also need to think of where those calories come from.

Junk Food is Junk Food, Regardless of Calories

And here’s the biggest problem. By basing your diet strictly on number of calories consumed, you can essentially allow those calories to come from anywhere, including junk food. But to get really healthy, you have to worry more about what you’re eating. By that I mean the nutritional composition of your food, the ingredients involved, and how the food you eat can actually help you burn more fat.

Calorie Counting Can Lead to Nutrient Deprivation

Enjoyed the occasional microwavable dinner? According to a calorie counting approach, this kind of processed and prepared food is just fine, because all that matters is the calorie content. But what really matters is the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals you provide your body with. And thinking about those is way more effective than thinking about calories which can ultimately lead to malnourishment.

So what’s the best approach?

You still need to read your food labels, but even more closely than before. Rather than just looking at calories without any concern over where they come from, I want you to think about what’s in your food. Certain fats, like Omega 3’s for example, can really boost your metabolism and help you control weight despite their higher calorie content. Protein and fiber are also better at keeping you full and satisfied, and the best sources for fiber are fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruit which also pack a ton of healthy vitamins and minerals.

It’s time for a change, haven’t you had enough?  Start with emptying your cupboards of all that processed junk and go to the grocery store with a focus to buy as many fresh products as you possibly can.

What all of this means is that taking a quality over quantity approach to dieting is way more effective, especially is your fitness goals involve getting in shape, toning, or building muscle. It’s time to get out of the calorie counting mindset once and for all.

If you need extra help and want more research check out my Common Sense Diet Plan . And for more tips about specific foods to look for, and foods that can actually help you burn more fat and enhance health, check out The Fast Metabolism Diet.

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