Hey there, lovely readers! If, like me, you’re on a journey to shed those extra pounds, boost your health, and lead a happier life, you’re in the right place. I recently set some weight loss goals, and I am often asked: “Does calorie counting work?” I wanted to share with you some insight into my journey and my findings!
The Basics of Calorie Counting
As I begin to answer the question: Does calorie counting work? I need to start by clarifying the basics of what calorie counting actually is. Calorie counting is a weight loss method that has gained popularity over the years. It revolves around the simple idea of monitoring the number of calories you consume. It’s often seen as a structured approach to weight management, and it certainly has its merits. The idea is you eat fewer calories than your body needs which prevents your body from storing additional fat and means your body uses up any stored fat you have.
The Pros
For some people, calorie counting can be a game-changer, especially if you’ve struggled with weight loss in the past. I’ve personally been calorie counting for the past few months, and let me tell you, it’s been one of the easiest ways I have ever lost weight. I’ve shed those unwanted pounds without feeling deprived or limited. The best part? I still enjoyed my favourite treats and meals along the way.
So, does calorie counting work? I think it may be too early in the blog post to conclude things there, but what I will say is I personally liked the fact I could pick it up with no previous knowledge and no nutritional degree. I didn’t need any specialist equipment, and it didn’t cost me anything to get started – always a plus.
The Cons
Of course, as with anything, it’s essential to acknowledge the limitations and potential downsides:
One common mistake people make when calorie counting is reducing your target calories too much. While it might seem tempting to go as low as possible, this approach can backfire. It’s not just unhealthy; it can make sticking to your plan nearly impossible. Instead, aim for a modest reduction, typically around 300-500 calories below your maintenance level.
Weight Loss Secrets
When it comes to weight loss, there really is no one-size-fits-all. Sometimes, you have to try lots of different methods until you find one that fits your likes and lifestyle. Remember that not everything works for everyone, and just because someone has had great success with something doesn’t mean you will necessarily. It also means that just because you have had success in the past with a certain method that, you will where you are in your life right now. The most important factor of weight loss is to be healthy during the process, and it is always best to seek advice from a GP or nutritionist before starting any kind of weight loss plan.
Tips To Lose Weight Calorie Counting
Does calorie counting work? Yes! I’ve got some tips to increase your chances of success here:
- Download a calorie counting app – It makes logging your calories and seeing how many calories you have left much easier.
- Work out your maintenance calories first – you can do that here.
- Set a calorie goal that is realistic and healthy – You only want your goal to be 300-500 calories below your maintenance. Too low, and you will struggle to stick to the plan, and eating calories that are too low can be unhealthy.
- Exercise – Exercising increases the amount of calories you burn. Find out if you should add these calories to your total calories available to eat here.
- Track and log everything – Most people fail at calorie counting because they don’t log the correct calories.
Does Calorie Counting Work For Everyone?
So, we have answered the question: Does calorie counting work? But does calorie counting work for everyone? Although calorie counting is a very straightforward and easy-to-adapt plan for many, it certainly won’t work for everyone. The very basics of weight loss suggest that if you consume less than your body uses, you will lose weight, and if you consume more than your body loses, you will gain weight. Some people love calorie counting as it evokes freedom and choice, whereas other people hate the lack of boundaries and structure. It very much depends on the individual, as with most things in life.
Does Calorie Counting Work – Conclusion
I hope this has helped answer your question: Does calorie counting work? Weight loss is extremely individual and unique to each person. For me personally, I have had great success and found it relatively easy to follow. I like being able to incorporate treats, takeaways and meals out. It means that just because I am on a weight loss journey, my lifestyle doesn’t have to change, and I don’t have to stop the things I enjoy.
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Love as always!
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