[suzie76]

I know there is only one way to count calories, but I had a question..

I really want to eat healthier, and am trying to get more fruits and vegetables out of every meal. Sometimes this will raise my calories count for the day, but I think it's worth it for the extra nutrients.

Example, if I eat brown rice (one cup) with kidney beans and tomatoes, this is more calories than a veggie burger on diet wheat bread, but I'm getting two servings of vegetables..I also like a small baked potato with kidney beans, salsa and lowfat cheese ( tablespoon). Again, more calories, but very healthy ones.

Do you think eating 100 or 200 more calories a day of "healthy" calories from vegetables and some fruits will really slow my weight loss?

I know a calorie is a calorie, but I'd rather have slower loss and be healthier. I could live on fat free processed food and lose weight faster, but I'd rather be healthier in the long run.

Thanks,
Sherry

[lawchica]

I don't. One thing to remember when you're counting calories is that 'good' calories often contain fiber and many vitamins and minerals that help your body perform at its best, as well as lose the extra weight. The fiber in veggies and fruit should be making you actually eat less calories because it will help you feel full and clean out the excess stuff you're consuming. I also think that eating a piece of fruit before you eat a meal will not only help you fill up faster on good stuff, but also help your body begin the digestive process. just my two cents

[Sandi]

Suzie - I don't think you could be more on target. Healthier is always better and a few hundred well chosen calories are not going to hinder your weight loss at all. I think it will help!

Keep it up girl!!

[jiffypop]

i absolutely agree with these ladies, but for a slightly different reason. well, over and above the extra nutrients and fiber...

fruits and vegs take more time and energy [read CALORIES] to digest, so it all sounds like a good exchange to me!!

just one little caveat, though. if you've decided to count carbs as well, please keep in mind that kidney beans are actually high carb, and a decent source of protein. the only reason i'm saying this is that if you find that the weight isn't coming off, these rice/potato with kidney bean combinations you're eating might have a role. you won't have to cut them out, but you might have to reduce portions.

[Jennelle]

Someone once told me, "No one ever got fat eating fruits and vegetables." I think you'll be fine, but, like Jiff said, watch the carbs!

[gonzostar]

i feel ya. i went over 100 calories today when i decided to have corn with dinner. i'm still kinda grouchy i went over, but hey, at least it was corn!