New to Calorie Counting
 

Hello there everyone! As you can see from the thread title, I'm new to calorie counting. I've been around the forum for a while but haven't really said anything for a few months :o Sorry! I'd like to have a good reason for it but I don't. I kind of fell off the wagon, didn't really gain any weight back but didn't put much effort into losing it either :(

Anyway, my research has led me here and I'm hoping to stay here from now on, if you'll have me :)

Quick overview, I'm 26 years old, 5' 7'' and weighed 217lbs at the beginning of this week. I'm aiming for 1400 - 1600 calories a day, 1500 being my target. I've got a little book that I write all my calorie intake in, another little book with a list of foods and calories (though I use the info on food packets when I can), a set of kitchen scales and a calculator :D I'm trying to avoid processed foods, sugars and limit my intake of fat.

I have a lot of reasons for wanting to lose weight (health, appearance and two weddings coming up this year to name a few). I don't really get any support at home (just last night I'd finished dinner and was checking my calories for the day when my other half threw a packet of mini chedders in front of me...I'm sure you can all imagine the look I gave him ;) ) but I know there's oceans of support on this site so I'm back and ready to go for it big time :hug:

I used to write everything in a book, but with time it got tedious- now I use sparkpeople.com, they have virtually EVERY food on the planet in there and you can add custom foods if you want. I find it makes it easier to keep up with calorie counting.

I weigh a few pounds less than you and my calorie range is 1400-1700 a day. If you are going to work out, I think you should be aiming for 1600+ calories a day. I know it sounds nuts, eat more to lose weight? But if you are working out and not eating enough you won't lose either :(

Welcome! Calorie counting is lots of fun! Cant wait to hear more from you. Be active, it helps with the support! ( IMO )