Are the days of counting calories over? Is this infamous weight-loss pastime really a good strategy? Counting calories does serve an important purpose in weight loss, but it doesn’t capture the full picture. It’s crucial to remember that being mindful of calorie consumption is different than being obsessive with only low calorie foods.

If you’re looking to lose weight in a healthy, holistic, and well-rounded way, ditch obsessing over calories. Creating a healthy balance is the place to start. It’s time to welcome a new wave of weight loss; one where you eat foods that are equally as nutritious as they are delicious.

Counting Calories: Is it Worth It?

Counting calories is meant to be a helpful tool in weight loss. The intention behind calorie counting is to create a caloric deficit. A caloric deficit happens when you are burning more calories than you are consuming and results in weight loss. It’s usually achieved by monitoring your calorie intake and engaging in calorie-burning activities.

Counting calories also creates awareness about how many calories you’re consuming and provides valuable insight into your health, eating habits, and overall lifestyle choices. Think of calorie counting as a tool in your weight loss toolkit. Use it when needed, but don’t make it everything.

Why Relying on Counting Calories Alone Could Be Dangerous

While it’s worth the effort to count calories, focusing on calories alone can lead us to avoid nutritious and healing foods. Many made the mistake of basing their weight loss strategy on consuming only low calorie foods. They follow a restricted list of foods with certain caloric criteria and disregard the nutrition content. While the short term success may be satisfying, it is dangerous because it may cause malnutrition and result in serious health issues in the long run.

Keep in mind that many nutrient-dense foods contain a higher number of calories than less nutrient-dense foods. In fact, a food high in calories doesn’t mean it is unhealthy or bad for us. The recommended weight loss strategy is to follow a balanced diet that focuses on portion sizes, appropriate food groups, and the quality of ingredients while taking your daily caloric intake and exercise level into consideration.

An Effective Weight Loss Solution

The real answer to an effective weight loss strategy? Choose whole and high-quality foods that benefit your health and help you lose weight. Caloric intake cannot be generalized or prescribed without an understanding of an individual’s unique needs. Although it’s helpful to be mindful of calorie count, the quality of your food holds equal importance. A great place to start is by incorporating whole foods into your life. If you’re looking to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle, here are a few tips:

• Not all “low-calorie” foods are healthy, just like not all “high-calorie” foods are unhealthy.
• Read the packaging before consuming, do you recognize all of the ingredients? If not, perhaps reconsider a better alternative.
• Keep meals simple, digestible, and delicious.
• Eat when you’re hungry and maintain a steady flow of nutrients throughout the day.
• Be mindful of portion sizes. For example, if you had a large meal for lunch, consider a smaller-portioned meal for dinner.
• Consult a trained nutritionist.

Choose Z.E.N. For Your Health

Z.E.N. Foods consultants are here to support you in your health journey. With whole, farm-to-table, and nourishing meals delivered straight to your door, weight loss has never been easier. Take a peek at our sample menu to learn more about the delicious meals we offer. You can also call us at (310) 205-9368 to speak with a consultant today.