How to count Calories
Counting calories is a popular way to monitor food intake and reach weight loss or fitness goals. Here are six steps to help you get started with counting calories:
- Familiarize yourself with serving sizes: The first step in counting calories is understanding serving sizes. You can use measuring cups, food scales, or the nutrition label to determine portion sizes.
- Keep a food journal: Recording what you eat and drink each day can help you see where you can cut calories. A food journal can be as simple as writing down what you ate and the serving size.
- Look up nutrition information: Use a calorie counting app or website to find the calorie content of the foods you’re eating. Make sure to enter accurate information, including serving size.
- Plan ahead: Knowing what you will eat in advance can help you make healthier choices and avoid impulse eating. Plan your meals and snacks and track the calories beforehand.
- Account for hidden calories: Drinks, condiments, and other foods can add up quickly, so make sure to account for those calories too.
- Re-evaluate regularly: Caloric needs change as your body changes, so make sure to re-evaluate your calorie needs regularly and adjust your intake as needed.
By counting calories, you can gain a better understanding of the energy you’re consuming and make informed decisions about your eating habits. Keep in mind that counting calories is just one tool for reaching health and fitness goals and should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
