I stopped caring much about calories a few years ago. Yes, it is true that balancing caloric intake with caloric output is ultimately what matters when it comes to maintaining a certain weight. However, there is much more to a calorie than it's ability to change a number on the scale. Here are a few thoughts:
1 gram of protein contains 4 calories, 1 gram of carbohydrates contains 4 calories, 1 gram of fat contains 9 calories. What does this mean? If you choose nutrient-dense foods, they will likely be less in calories. If you choose fat-filled foods, they will have a higher caloric amount. No matter what kind of fat you eat, it will all have a lot of calories, therefore make your fat worthwhile so that it will have some redeeming value (think avocados and olive oil).
Being active throughout your day will often burn just as many overall calories as sitting all day, then getting in a 30 minute workout. There are so many benefits to exercise OTHER than burning calories. Seeing exercise not only as a way to balance calories will make it more enjoyable.
In years past, Americans were thinner. In years past, Americans didn't count calories. Caring about calories DOES NOT equate with being healthy (or being thin).
Don't get me wrong, there is a right time and place to count calories. However, for the average person, it can lead to obsessive thoughts and let-downs. Reconsider if calorie-counting is right for you. The body has an amazing ability to regulate itself when it is well-taken care of.
When I look at a food label, rarely do I pay attention to calories. I care more about what's in my food--like, is it even really food at all? Will it nourish my body?
My bottom line: focus on nutrition, not calories. Stay active, eat protein, have self-control. It's easy, right? :-)
Speaking of calories...it's been so hot this week! A great activity to do with kids in the heat is go to a place like Bounce U where they can burn some units of heat energy.
