Is it true I can eat anything and lose weight, as long as I count the calories?

If I ate 1500 cals of cupcakes per day or I ate 1500 cals of carrots , I would lose the same amount of weight because weight loss comes down to a calorie deficit.
As Long as your really at a calorie deficit you will lose weight ( use a food scale for all solids, measure liquids, no guessing portions ,be accurate )
While I would never suggest eating 1500 cals of cupcakes per day, it is still 100% possible to lose weight that way if one really wanted to.
For me, I personally like a well balanced diet that includes some treats . I've eaten ice cream every day throughout my weight loss process. And have continued to eat it throughout my 2+ yrs so far of maintaining. Instead of eating the entire gallon, I have a portioned serving that fits within my calorie goals.

Yes this is true. If you are diligent at counting, exercise isn't required either.

However, when you lower calories and eat a lot of junk, you are going to be hungry. If you want to lose fat (and keep more muscle) you will want to meet (or exceed) protein goals. Your body has nutritional requirements. When you lower calories you need to make more calories count.

What many people do is eat well most of the time, but leave room for treats (80/20 is popular). That way you are still looking at portion control for treats. Portion control for treats is going to be important during maintenance.

Exercise is for fitness. But, strength training is important while losing weight because it can help you keep more lean muscle mass. Healthy weight loss helps you lower your body fat %.

lovoasred wrote: »

It's not all just the calories. Keep in mind of the other things like carbs, sodium, sugars, and fats. Your body needs a certain amount, but in moderation. At least that's what my nutritionist said. I'm no expert. (:

The op asked in regards of weight loss- so for weight loss , all that's needed is a calorie deficit.

To make sure I get what I need nutritionally, I hit macros. Carbs - protein- fat. And because there's some newcomers in this thread - carbs are nothing to be afraid of ( as long as you don't have a medical condition) carbs will not cause one to gain weight. A calorie surplus causes weight gain. Fat doesn't make one fat. A calorie surplus does. In other words, it comes down to calories for weight loss or weight gain. For overall health, eating a well balanced diet is a good idea. A well balanced diet can include treats and snacks. Moderation and portion control are key .

Remember - calories in / calories out.

chandanista wrote: »

It's the calories. Nutrition is important, but weight loss is sheer calories in-calories out.

Edited to say that I *feel better* when I hit my macros. It's not necessary for weight loss, but it sure makes it easier to stick with it when you're not starving all day.

What is a macro goal? Sorry- I am relatively new to this site so forgive my ignorance.

samkharvey22 wrote: »

What is a macro goal? Sorry- I am relatively new to this site so forgive my ignorance.

Macro is short for macronutrients: fat, protein, and carbohydrates.