How to Properly Count Calories
When you’re trying to lose weight, one of the best ways to do so is by counting calories. If you eat a healthy diet and count calories every day, you should be able to lose a substantial amount of excess weight in next to no time. While it might seem as though counting calories is easy, there are some mistakes that are very easy to make, which can impede your progress. Knowing how to properly count calories will help you lose the right amount of weight.
The Basics of Counting Calories
The best way to determine the number of calories you should consume each day is by using an online calculator These calculators will use such metrics as your age, current weight, and amount of weekly exercise to determine how much calories you need to eat each week in order to maintain or lose weight. Once you’ve determined how many calories you need to eat per day in order to lose 1-2 pounds each week, all that’s left to do is count the number of calories in each food or beverage that you consume throughout the day.
What to Do and Not to Do When Counting Calories
First of all, it’s essential that you don’t rely on your memory while counting calories. Even if you remember everything that you ate throughout the day, it’s doubtful that you would be able to remember the calorie count of each food item. To avoid this issue, it’s recommended that you keep a small food journal to write down the calories of each food and beverage immediately after you consume them. There are also some downloadable smartphone applications that make this process more convenient. It’s also important that you don’t guess about the amount of calories you consume each day. Keep track of the portions you eat.
Many people who attempt to track their calories will forget to record all of the snacks they consume throughout the day. When you grab a few pretzels or some raisins, you’ll need to record these calories as well. Don’t feel as though you need to splurge to get the best calorie-counting tool available. Even the traditional pen and paper method can be highly effective and will save you a substantial sum of money. Along with tracking calories, you should consider tracking the fat grams, proteins, and carbohydrates in the foods you eat, which will allow you to improve your health as you lose weight.
