I don’t count calories, I count on my calories.
That’s right.
Instead of counting calories, I rely on them and the nutrients in foods as fuel.
Gone are the days of chronic calorie counting now that healthy, balanced eating is part of my everyday lifestyle. I no longer meticulously track calories, instead I make sure my body is fueled with the right calories, protein, carbs, and healthy fats so I can live an active and healthy life.
Simply put, I eat more on days I workout, on holidays, birthdays, vacations, and special occasions…and I don’t sweat it.
How do I know when I’m fueling my body properly?
- I have the energy to get through any day including the ones that include hardcore workouts
- I don’t have “brain-fog” like I used to have on ultra low-carb cycles
- I don’t feel lethargic after I eat
- My clothes fit comfortably
- My skin is clear
- I’m reaching my goals
When I’m feeling off-track, as in sluggish, or dare I say, having a fat day…I take a look at what and how much I’ve been eating and drinking (because I do write it down), my intensity levels in the gym, and my sleep quality, and then I adjust.
In a nutshell, I’m in control of my calories, they are not in control of me.
And speaking of nuts…
Now I really must go grab a spoonful of peanut butter and a protein shake and get ready for a great week…I’m counting on it!
MizFit says:
October 25th 2010YES YES TO NUMBER TWO!!!!
The last time I competed in a bodybuilding show I attempted the looow carb for 4 days .
all veggies and no grains.
attempted.
I lasted 3/4 of one day.
lindsay says:
October 25th 2010oh, I am loving this quote. I am loving this post. Straight to the facts! I just might have to quote you to others as well today. :)
Jessica@HowSweet says:
October 25th 2010LOVE this!
The Candid RD says:
October 25th 2010Good for you Joanna. Let this be a lesson to all girls and boys who count calories. It’s one thing to enjoy counting calories, but I know I loved it for a while, then it because a hassle and made eating much more stressful. I’m so glad I no longer count them either. Life is much more simple without calories to worry about! My body knows when it needs fuel, so that’s who I listen to.
Jody - Fit at 52 says:
October 25th 2010Great post Joanna.. I bet you have a feel for what you bring in though…
I don’t count calories per se but I have a very good feel of what I am taking in each day after all these years. I really have to because as we age, things really do change & our body really does fight us, even for those of us that are already eating clean, exercising with weights & cardio & doing all the right things. I also pay attention to how my bod reacts to food. Like you, I also eat less on non workout days & more on workout days….
Anna @ Newlywed, Newly Veg says:
October 25th 2010I love how that tiny additional word changes EVERYTHING! Love!
Tracey @ I'm Not Superhuman says:
October 25th 2010I’m with you: calorie counting is out. It can drive you mad if you let it. I’d rather eat clean and when I’m hungry. I think there are plenty of outward signs you’re getting too many calories, tight pants being primary among them!
sian says:
October 25th 2010Great rules for yourself! Yes, everyone still needs to live and feel comfortable with their eating….and the BIG one, not to sweat it!
Kerri O says:
October 25th 2010Calorie counting makes me obsess. Now I am trying planning ahead and writing down what I eat in a food journal, but not obsessing over every calorie.
Paige @ Running Around Normal says:
October 25th 2010Great post:) I count on my calories too!
Coach Weight Loss » Blog Archive » 177 ways to lose the weight and burn calories says:
October 25th 2010[...] I don’t count calories, I count on my calories. | Fitness & Spice [...]
FatFighterTV says:
October 25th 2010I adjust according to how I feel, too. And have you noticed that tends to change over time? Who knew eating way more carbs a few years ago was perfect for me then, but now, not so much.
Mali K (The Mali K Whey) says:
October 28th 2010Great post! I too recently stopped obsessing about how many calories I was eating and rather focused on making sure I was getting all the nutrients I need. It’s so much easier and less stressful, and way more beneficial to the body. The calories just kinda work themselves out when you’re eating the right kinds of food and working out.
Kelly Olexa says:
October 30th 2010PERFECT POST. Love it. ;-)
Coach Weight Loss » Blog Archive » thus I come come out a kind currentfast. ? says:
November 26th 2010[...] I don’t count calories, I count on my calories. | Fitness & Spice [...]