Count Nutrients Not Calories
By Lydia Wallie, Nutrition Director
Calorie counting is a very common way of dieting. However, when it comes to supporting the immune system, I care more about the number of nutrients you’re consuming, than the number of calories. When we focus on real foods, the body has a way of knowing when we’ve had enough and it’s time to stop eating. Unfortunately, with the diet culture we live in, it’s common to suppress the body’s cues about hunger and not listen to whether we’re hungry or full...life becomes all about calories.
I’m not saying you have to completely ditch calorie counting. For some, it can be a harmless and helpful tool. But if it’s controlling your life, increasing stress levels, or contributing to an unhealthy food mentality, it may be beneficial to stop. Instead of calorie counting, start consuming more real foods that may or may not have a nutrition label on them...meats, poultry, eggs, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, etc. Your body will eventually regulate and you’ll start to notice more patterns in your hunger levels.
There are certain times when the body requires more or fewer calories. This caloric/nutritional need fluctuates for various reasons including hormones, exercise, detoxification, and stress. (1) Fun fact: If you have ever completed a Nutrition Challenge with 925 Strong, you probably understand this concept well! Hunger fluctuations happen as the body is detoxifying and burning fat stores.
Now, are you ready to replace processed and fast foods with real food? Contact us here for details on our Nutrition Challenges, personalized Nutrition Coaching, and customized Meal Planning!
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