Thank you guys so much for the responses. It is so nice to know that I am not the only one that feels as if calorie counting can be tedious.
Euphy- I so agree that if you are only eating very healthy things, you don't have to watch as closely. However, I find myself sticking to a whole foods diet for several weeks and then having a trigger moment and getting back into eating unhealthy for a few days. This is a separate issue from calorie counting, but whenever I start to feel to restricted is when I fall off the deep end. Definitely need to work on that.
Everlasting- Yep, I have experienced the same thing. Once I stop counting, the pounds come on. You're right I do need to start accepting that this may just be a part of my reality at least for now.
Desiderata- This is exactly where I am too. It's that trade-off between being super strict and seeing results. I know that if I start again, I will see the results I am looking for.
laciemn- That is a good strategy, I will have to try it. It may help me become better at eating intuitively as well.
newleaf123- I am so quantitative in nature as well! This is exactly why I struggle with over-obsessing with the counting as well. I'm glad it is working for you. I think that checking it every now and then is definitely a good idea.
kwin1973- I agree, I like the accountability that it provides for me as well as that it allows me to "schedule" meals that are not as healthy and still remain within the allotted calorie range.
freelancemomma- Honesty is very important as you said. This is why I have put on some weight, by underestimating calories in my head and allowing myself to get lazy. Congrats on reaching maintenance! I do so hope that I am able to keep everything in check mentally when I reach maintenance.
Arctic Mama- Very true that it is a disaster for those of us who were obese. I find that when I am not held accountable, all bets are off. I think that with time it will become second nature to me, I just have to learn how to balance it out a little more, and not become so obsessive.
betsy2013- I think that the main reason it stresses me out is that I become obsessive about the number. Having that in the back of my head stresses me out, but I know it is something I am going to have to get used to.
kaplods- I really like the idea of journaling in a special notebook. I have been keeping count on MFP on my phone, and I think that writing it down would be easier for me. I agree that just the mere act of counting is important, whether it is 100% accurate or not. I will try doing the exchange system as well. That may be a good transition into intuitive eating which is where I would like to be eventually.
Andrea85- Yep, you hit the nail on the head! I definitely begin to feel guilty about being hungry. What is up with that?! Good idea about the meal planning. I was doing that before and it was working for me. I think that paired with eating healthy, nutrient dense foods will allow me to be a little more relaxed with calorie counting and not feeling guilty.
shciref- Yes, you are right as I am beginning to see! I am going to have to keep track if I want to see results.
luckymommy- Oh, I forgot about skinnytaste! Thanks for reminding me. I agree, which is why I gained some weight back. I guess it's back to tracking for me!
emaline29- Yep, and my biggest problem is "calorie honesty". I know I need to stay accountable with no excuses this time.
Koshka- I like the idea of counting even when you are not eating the best things or the right amounts. I did that one time when I had a binge and it totaled 7,000+ calories. Needless to say, that was a wake up call.
