Does Everyone Count Calories?

No! I don't count calories. I have been using this site since the start of jan the same time I started my get fit spree. I cook most meals and the quantities and ratios change each time. I also freeze food, then add to that when defrosted, so to get an accurate count for everything would be quite time consuming. I maintain that what and how i cook is healthy. My problem was portion control, bad snacking and too much wine. Now eat of a smaller plate, only healthy snacks and wine-Fridays! I also have upped the exercise and am loosing just over a pound a week, on average. Would it go faster if I counted calories? Perhaps.

What I have found great about this site is the message boards - especially the success stories. They have really given me an idea of how long this project will be. Previously on diets I did not have a long-term vision and stalled after a month or so, depressed that I hadn't lost more. I am tracking my exercise - but I know that any entry in the database is to be taken with a pinch of salt - it is an average. As long as I use the same entry each time I know roughly what is happening. I also use this to track my weight - this was another problem previously, as I would lie to other folk about my start weight and goal......and ultimately to myself. Now, I update each week and that is motivating me.

Do what works for you! This site is a great tool, but use it how you wish - and don't be put off my folk saying what you should or shouldn't do!
Good luck

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this ^

at the end of last year I was micromanaging the calories (was that carrot 110grams of just 95?...45 mins of exercise or 42.5?) It was just too much effort! I took a break of 2 months hovering about the same weight before I decided to start again. Now I use whats already listed. I use roughly the same proportions every time for the usual things ('about enough' in a stew is 100gms per vege, in soup its 200). I am not going to quibble about 50 cals here or there, and I must say, I am FAR better for it. YMMV.
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This exactly! I started micromanaging calories and workout times. I would have to weigh everything little thing or bust out the measuring spoons, cups, etc. It was so time consuming and created a ton of dirty dishes. By the time my plate had food on it, everyone else in the family was done eating, so I couldn't sit and enjoy dinner with them. Also, we live with my parents, so there are 4 adults trying to share one kitchen. My Mom has yelled at me numerous times about my measuring scales/tools being in her way!! So, I just try to "guestimate" on portion size. I know that's not the best way to go about weight loss, but I really have to keep the peace around the house.

I totally understand about the portions in homemade food like stews and soups. How the heck am I supposed to measure how much beef I ate in a beef stew that was cooked in a 7 quart crock pot??