I get this question a LOT!!
Should you count calories? My answer? Not so simple.
I think that counting calories can be good–to a certain point. A lot of times people come to me and say that they have been eating so healthy, but they’re not losing weight. This is simply a matter of calories in vs. calories out, so for a few days you may benefit from learning what two tablespoons of peanut butter looks like (it’s not very much!).
Once you can see what a proper portion actually looks like, you should be able to stop counting and measuring.
Counting calories can get obsessive–I want you to enjoy food and enjoy life! My rule of eating that you should follow, if you choose not to count calories is this: sit down to the table, without distractions and enjoy your food.
So many people eat mindlessly that they can go through a whole bag of potato chips while they’re watching TV and wonder what happened to it! If you’re eating mindfully, you’ll be more in tune with your body and know when you’ve had enough.
So, if you’re just starting out and want to learn what portions sizes really are, or you’re not seeing results from what you’re currently doing, you may want to count your calories for a few days. Other than that, enjoy your food and enjoy life! Don’t stress too much–food is made to be ENJOYED…not scrutinized =)
