Calories are only part of the picture
What else matters?
Someone asked me recently, “Do you count calories?”
The short answer? Not usually.
Calories can be useful information in some situations, but I don’t always find counting them the most helpful place to start.
Instead, I prefer to shift the focus towards what we can add to our diet:
🥦 More minimally processed, nourishing foods 🥚 Enough protein throughout the day 🌾 Fibre-rich carbohydrates 🥑 Healthy fats 💧 Adequate hydration 🍽️ Regular, satisfying meals
And just as importantly, not undereating or constantly restricting.
For some people, eating too little - or spending a lot of mental energy controlling food - can create a cycle of restriction, hunger, cravings and stress. Food can start to take up far more mental space than it deserves.
Calories aren't all about the same thing
A calorie is a measure of energy, but the food providing those calories matters.
Two foods might contain a similar number of calories but provide very different amounts of protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients - as well as different levels of fullness and satisfaction.
What we need from food also changes depending on our body, age, stage of life, activity levels and individual needs.
For women especially, I think it’s important to look at the whole picture, rather than simply trying to make the number smaller or the plate smaller.
So instead of only asking:
“How many calories are in this?”
try asking:
“What is this food doing for me?”
Is it providing protein? Is it helping me feel satisfied? Is it supporting my energy? Am I getting the nutrients I need? Does it fit my body and my life?
Nutrition isn't simply about eating less. It's about getting more of what your body actually needs.
Try this this week:
For one meal each day, don’t count anything.
Instead, ask yourself:
“What could I add to make this meal more nourishing and satisfying?”
For example, take a simple breakfast and see what you can add:
🥣 Greek yoghurt → extra protein + calcium 🌱 Chia seeds → fibre + plant-based omega-3 fats 🌾Linseeds (flaxseeds) → fibre + plant-based omega-3 fats + lignans (phytoestrogens) 🥜 Nuts or seeds → protein + healthy fats + minerals such as iron 🫐 Berries or other fruit → fibre + vitamins + antioxidants
You don't need to add everything, and you don't need to make every meal perfect.
Think about what your meal might be missing - and add from there.
A little extra yoghurt. A spoonful of seeds. Some fruit. A handful of nuts.
Small additions can make a surprisingly big difference.
Want more information? Book your free discovery call
