slo’s MONDAY 1/2 poll - Counting Calories

[slo]

Are you a calorie counter?
If yes - do you use an app to help you or do you write everything down yourself?
(multiple choice)


For Me……Now that the holidays are over it’s time for me to get back to eating better. I’m a part-time calorie counter and I sometimes use the My Fitness Pal app. I say part-time because I’ve been doing this for a long time and I know how many calories many things are and don’t need to log it in. January is always my most strict month after all the crappy eating I’ve done the last 2 months. I’m already mentally prepared for the killer headache I’m going to have this week due to my body going through sugar withdrawal (happens every year). I have fun eating recklessly over the holidays, but it feels good every year to hit the reset button and go back to my healthier eating habits (and I drop about 5lbs, which is always good too).

 

[Meriweather]

I watch what I eat, but do not count calories

 

[JaxDad]

I don’t count calories, but I generally limit carbs. I’ve also reset my portion control. I was eating with my 18-year-old son a lot before he went to college, and I forgot I don’t have his metabolism!

 

[NAB]

I have counted calories before. Especially if I want to get back on track. I like you know how many calories are foods I eat regular.

Would start getting back on track this week but will be on the Magic on Friday. We’ll be taking the stairs the whole time if that counts…lol

 

[Kitty 34]

I don't count calories.

 

[Schneewittchen37]

I count calories off and on. I only do it if I'm actively trying to lose weight. I did it to lose about 10 lbs last year.

I used to use a website to track calories - fitday - but that was 15-20 years ago.

These days I do it manually with a spreadsheet.

 

[Dan Murphy]

Like you, Sandy, I've used MFP for a long time, I pretty much know what keeps me on and off track. I use the app periodically for several weeks at a time during the year, just to attune myself again. Great app. I pay for the premium version, find the extras quite helpful.

Years back, I did a basal metabolic rate test at the wellness center at our hospital. So I know my BMR and if I stay no more than 10-15% above that number, 1,700, I'm good.

 

[PollyannaMom]

I'm not a strict calories-counter, though I do try to "watch" them and keep things reasonable.

 

[Magical2017]

I count points using WW. It has allowed me to maintain a weight loss but not feel hungry all the time. I try to stick with it as best as I can. When I tried counting calories with MyFitnessPal, I was always hungry, so this works for me. Everyone is different, though.

 

[leebee]

I had bariatric surgery six year ago and lost 110+ pounds, so that puts a strict limit on the amount of food I can consume. I've managed to stay within that weight loss category; if I gain a few, it's because I've forgotten to pay attention to my eating habits. I am not sure where I am right now, as I've been either sick or laid up for 4 of at the last 5 weeks, or something like that, and somehow most of the Christmas candy/treats seemed to find its way to my bedside table! Not that I make resolutions, but I've decided it's time to work on myself for awhile, focus on getting healthy, mindful eating, and doing some light work-outs so I get a little stronger.

 

[ronandannette]

No, I don’t. I was ill last summer and had a fairly dramatic weight loss without trying. Since then I just naturally eat a TON less than I ever have. Now that the portions are under control the calories have taken care of themselves. If I had to guess I’d say I probably eat between 800 - 1,300, depending on the day. I don’t make any restrictions so there is no “cheating” but I am conscious of sugar so as not throw my blood sugar out of whack.

 

[jo-jo]

I'd count but then I'd would be lying at being good at gaining weight on that other thread.

Really there are times, I'm like, that cookie is 250 calories?? So not worth it. Other times, I don't care, give me a pizza with extra cheese.

 

[_19disnA]

Nope, never have. Eating a sensible, balanced diet along with exercise/being active never goes out of style. Every year or so some new fad diet comes along and quickly fades into the background.

 

[WDWEPCOT]

I’ve counted since I was a preteen so I can look at something and have a good idea how many calories are in it - being short you really have to watch your weight as you have nowhere to hide any pounds - you gain 5 pounds you went up a size - no thanks !
Over the years I have found what works best for me and came to the conclusion what works for me may not work for you - everyone is different - so I just do my thing - so far I’ve lost 27 pounds !! Very happy !!

 

[georgina]

I have used apps in the past. I find it an effective way to lose weight. I just get tired of it after a few months. I liked that I could put in meals - I tend to eat certain things often, such as plain yogurt, berries, and granola, so just adding that meal was convenient.

 

[mumto3girls]

I don’t count calories, but try to watch sugar and the less healthy carbs. January is always a bit of a reset here.

 

[Kathryn Merteuil]

Starting back today!

 

[OKW8297]

I typ follow Weight Watchers. Have fallen off the wagon but back on track

 

[Breezy_Carol]

Ditto.

I also have counted many WW points. Need to start counting again, if I could only get motivated.

 

[tvguy]

I don't count them, but I am aware of them.