|
Last night my family had a wonderful pork tenderloin for dinner. It was so good that all of us ate more than normal and walked away very full; only to return to the leftovers a few hours later to dig in again. This didn’t exceed my carb goals for the day, but I did consume a lot of calories and sodium.
Over the last 3 months I have been tracking not only carbs but fat and calories as well. The Atkins book tells us that we don’t really need to be concerned with calories (unless we aren't losing) but I do worry about it. I accept Atkin’s principles, but I also think that calories play into it. I don’t accept that a person can consume thousands and thousands of calories per day but just because they were all protein loss will occur. (I’m not saying that Atkins’ book says to do that, but that it is a common misconception)
For that reason, I hold myself to two goals; 20 net carbs per day and approximately 1300 calories per day. This satisfies me and I’m having good results (2 to 2.5 pounds a week). That said, I spend a lot of time meal planning to meet these goals. Which, admittedly, isn’t a bad thing…meal planning is important. But because of the two goals it can take some juggling.
Because of these daily goals, I was dreading my weigh-in this morning. I was sure that I would either gain or stay the same. I figured if the calories didn’t get me the sodium intake would. Needless to say, I was very surprised to see a loss. I did increase my water intake yesterday in preparation for the sodium. But, the loss this morning got me to thinking…maybe I’m making this too complicated. Maybe I shouldn’t worry so much about the calories and just track the net carbs. I suppose the passage about eating until you are satisfied (not hurting) is the key.
I'd like to know if any other Aktin's folks track calories too. Thanks - Traci
|
 Comments
I don't really keep track of calories - BUT I have to admit that if I'm not losing and feel like I've been eating right, then I DO look at calories. I try to follow the "Atkins creed" and eat until I'm satisfied. Like Dr. Atkins says, "This is not a license to gorge." Personally, I think the whole thing is about learning new habits and getting to know your body better. Your preparation for the salty foods probably saved you yesterday. And that's what this about - learning how to compensate.
13 Nov 08 by member: Paige E
|
My advice is: if it is working, don't change a thing. I'm not saying it is good to overanalyze, but I am guilty of it too. It will get harder to lose as you get closer to goal. Your calorie requirements do go down as you lose weight. It has to do with your basic metabolic rate. I only track calories from time to time to make sure I am not overdoing it or that I am getting enough. I found that with 20 nc per day I have virtually no appetite and could get down to 800 cals/ day easily if I wasn't watching it. Too few calories can impair weight loss too. You seem really on top of it so just keep doing what you're doing and don't question it until you stall for a month or start gaining.
13 Nov 08 by member: sararay
|
doing great proud of you we can do this.
14 Nov 08 by member: Big Orr
|
You are awesome!! You seem driven to reach your goal weight--I am excited for your healthy choices so far! The recipes you have look great! My plan is to stay focused, do all I can to reach my goal on the diet/plan I am on, then continue to work on staying healthy. You are an inspiration!
17 Nov 08 by member: SariO
|
| |
|
|
| |
Submit a Comment
You must sign in to submit a comment
|
|
|
Other Related Links
Members
|
tlr4615's weight history
|