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
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