Should I Count Calories?
Get an honest, personalized answer based on your goals, history, and relationship with food. This isn't about selling you on tracking - it's about finding what actually works for you.
What's driving you to consider calorie counting right now?
Understanding your motivation helps determine if tracking is the right tool for your situation.
The Truth About Calorie Counting
It's a Tool, Not a Requirement
Calorie counting is one of many approaches to managing your weight. It works extremely well for some people and is completely wrong for others. There's no shame in either tracking or not tracking - what matters is finding what works for YOUR body, YOUR lifestyle, and YOUR mental health.
When Tracking Helps Most
You're confused about portions
If you genuinely don't know how much you're eating, tracking provides clarity
You've hit a plateau
Data often reveals where extra calories are sneaking in
You have a specific deadline
Short-term tracking for events can be highly effective
You love data and structure
Some people thrive with numbers - if that's you, embrace it
When Tracking Can Hurt
History of eating disorders
Numbers can trigger restriction or binge cycles - proceed with professional guidance only
It increases food anxiety
If tracking makes you MORE stressed about food, it's not the right tool
You become obsessive
Turning down social events or panicking over untracked meals is a red flag
You already have a good thing going
If intuitive eating works for you, don't fix what isn't broken
If You Need Help
If you're struggling with your relationship with food, these resources can help:
- • National Eating Disorders Association: 1-800-931-2237
- • Crisis Text Line: Text "NEDA" to 741741
- • Find a therapist: psychologytoday.com (filter for eating disorders)
- • Find a dietitian: eatright.org (look for ED specialization)