Calorie counting is a way of monitoring the number of calories that we consume each day. It is an effective way of losing weight if used properly. The simplest way of calories counting is to reduce 500 calories each day from your food and you will lose 1 pound weight in 5 days. It sounds more convenient than going to the gym 6 days a week. Today it is easier to count calories and keep track of them due to the availability of hundreds of apps. Sometimes to lose weight, you need to change your eating habits while in other cases calorie counting is an effective way. If you want to change body composition then calorie counting is going to help you but remember you need to lessen the number of calories if you want to lose weight. this will help you in the long term even after you have stopped calorie counting.

In order to understand if the practice of calorie counting helps below is a list of pros and cons of calorie counting so that you can see for yourself if it is worth it:

Pro# 1

Calorie counting provides you with a way of tracking your progress. If you have a record of your calories intake to which you can refer from time to time then it will give you an idea of how far along you have come. Sometimes people have no idea where their calorie intake lies so they do not know what to do. So, it is better that you have an idea and record of your progress.

Pro# 2

Calorie counting is a sure way of knowing your calorie consumption than wildly assuming it. For example, if you want to gain weight by muscle building and that is not happening by making changes in your diet then calorie counting can help you know how much proteins you need to consume in order to reach that goal. It also tells you how much you should at every meal.

Pro# 3

Calorie counting makes you aware of your food choices and their benefits. By calorie counting, you can identify which foods are best for you and which foods are simply not. You will also have an idea about the nutrition value of different food items.

Pro# 4

It is motivational. Some people like randomness while others like routines. So, for people who like routines calorie counting is a way to go. It will not only motivate them but also gives them something to adhere to.

Cons# 1

Tracking calories each day is a hassle and some people just do not like the stress induced by this hassle. If you are one of those people then there are many other methods available for you than calorie tracking.

Con# 2

It can lead to obsessive behaviors. If you are constantly thinking about calories and monitoring them then it will lead to eating disorders. It is important that you also acknowledge your feeling rather than solely relying on calorie counting.

Con# 3

Calorie counting can lead to skipping necessary food that provides you fewer calories like vegetables. Contrary it can also lead to skipping high-calorie foods such as foods rich in fats and proteins. Always remember that you need to eat a balanced diet.

Con# 4

Counting calories every meal can be time taking and tiring. You can feel like that it is your second job and can be discouraged to do so.

References

https://eatsmartproducts.com/fitness-and-wellness/the-pros-and-cons-of-calorie-counting/

https://sigmanutrition.com/should-i-be-tracking-calories/