Calories, what the heck are they?
If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, gain muscle, or just eat a healthy diet, you’ve probably heard the word “calories” thrown around. But what the heck are they, and why do they matter so much? In this post, we’ll break down the basics of calories and why counting them can be an important part of your health journey.
What are calories?
Calories are a way of measuring energy, and when it comes to food, they tell us how much energy we’re getting from what we eat. But what’s energy all about, and why do we need it? Energy is just the ability to do work, and our bodies need energy for all sorts of things like breathing, thinking, and exercising.
In scientific terms, a calorie is a unit of energy. Specifically, it’s the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius.
Why do calories matter?
Calories matter because they represent the amount of energy we consume in our food and drinks. When we consume more calories than our body needs, that excess energy is stored as fat. Over time, this can lead to weight gain and a range of health problems. On the other hand, when we consume fewer calories than our body needs, our body must find other sources of energy to keep us going. It may burn stored fat, leading to weight loss, or it may break down muscle tissue. This is why it’s important to pay attention to the number of calories we consume and make sure we’re getting the right amount for our goals.
How many calories do you need?
The number of calories you need each day depends on a variety of factors, including your age, gender, height, weight, and activity level. Generally, men need more calories than women, and people who are more active need more calories than those who are sedentary. To figure out how many calories you need, you can use an online calculator that takes these factors into account. Once you know your daily calorie needs, you can then use that information to plan your meals and snacks.
How to count calories
Counting calories can be as simple or as complicated as you make it. At its most basic, it involves tracking the number of calories you consume each day and making sure you stay within your daily calorie needs. One way to do this is to use a food diary or a calorie counting app. These tools can help you keep track of the number of calories in the foods and drinks you consume, and they can also help you set goals and monitor your progress over time.
EatWell app is a tool you can use to calculate your daily calorie needs and make calorie counting so much easier. Download EatWell app from the AppStore and try it out.
It’s important to note that not all calories are created equal. While it’s true that consuming more calories than your body needs can lead to weight gain, it’s also important to focus on the quality of the calories you’re consuming. A balanced meal with all nutrients is key to feeling satisfied and energized throughout the day, while also helping to maintain a healthy weight and supporting overall health and well-being.
Final Thoughts
Counting calories can be a useful tool for anyone who wants to achieve a healthy weight or maintain a healthy diet. By paying attention to the number of calories you consume and making sure you’re getting the right amount for your goals, you can set yourself up for long-term success. However, it’s also important to remember that calories aren’t the only factor that matters when it comes to health and nutrition. A balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods is key to maintaining optimal health and well-being.