keto

Join

Counting calories on keto?

LadyTalulah
LadyTalulah Posts: 174 Member
edited November 24 in Social Groups
I started on a LCHF diet 3 days ago, how important is counting calories? I ask because I've gone over my the last few days as I'm always hungry! And seeing as fat contains the most calories per gram, it adds up fast…
I've been going over quite a bit these last few days.. Is it just the adjustment period? Is my weight loss progress going to be massively slowed if I go over?

Replies

  • JENIPENNY123
    JENIPENNY123 Posts: 13 Member
    edited September 2015
    Hi Lady T, I've only been doing this for five weeks now, so I am by no means an expert. Those first few days, I did not count my calories. I pretty much ate when I was hungry or lightheaded, which was roughly 5-7 times a day. By about day 4, I felt better, which is when I began calorie counting (I aim for 1500-1700 calories per day, and 125g fat, 75g protein, and less than 20g carbs per day). I also used a keto calculator to see what kind of caloric deficit was right for me. I really don't think your weight loss will be derailed. Right now you're body is in response mode. If your experience is anything like mine was, in a few more days your appetite will stabilize. In the meantime, eat chicken broth with heavy cream (if you can handle dairy!) and lots of salt. This really helped me those first several days :) Also cheesy scrambled eggs were my go-to! Once your appetite/cravings drop-off, considering implementing short periods of intermittent fasting. Maybe this doesn't work for everybody, but I've really enjoyed it. I am now able to fast about 18 hours, and what's more, I have energy to spare while working out a few hours before my fast ends :) Please note that I just do cardio. I have not yet begun a strength training program :)
  • lodro
    lodro Posts: 982 Member
    are you eating enough fat? are your carbohydrates low enough? In any case: while you're adjusting: stick to your macro ratios but don't mind calories too much.
  • nicintime
    nicintime Posts: 381 Member
    As long as your carbs are low enough I wouldn't worry about calories, especially the first couple weeks. As you become fat/keto adapted (4-6 weeks) you will experience the delightful side effect of ketosis that is decreased appetite. It is weird and wonderful to not be hungry all the time!

    Your focus initially needs to be getting into ketosis. Then look at your calories, both quantity and quality.

    First things first makes this WOL much easier for most folks.
This discussion has been closed.

Categories