Why you should start by tracking your food?

When clients approach me with the objective of losing weight, one of the primary recommendations I make is to begin tracking their current dietary intake. There are several rationales for this initial step.

Firstly, understanding one's starting point is crucial. For instance, if an individual is consuming 3,000 calories daily, making an abrupt drop to 1,500 calories - the potential caloric requirement for weight loss based on factors like activity level, age, height, and target weight - would be not only jarring but also unsustainable. By first determining an individual's current caloric consumption, we can then methodically reduce intake, making the transition smoother and more manageable.

Secondly, assessing the macro-nutrient distribution is essential. It's not rare to find that some individuals may have an imbalance, such as a high intake of carbohydrates or fats, coupled with low protein consumption. By recognizing these patterns, it becomes easier to introduce incremental changes. For instance, elevating protein and fiber intake can make the overall caloric reduction process more comfortable and satiating.

By beginning with these steps, we lay a foundation that promotes sustainable change, ensuring our clients are set up for success from the outset.