Effectively Track Your Food
By Rachel Carver
Seeing your scale number stay stagnant can get frustrating. Even if you are following a balanced diet, it can sometimes be surprising where your calories come from.
For this reason and many others, tracking your food is one of the best ways to lose weight. Tracking your macros as well as your calories can show you the big picture of the foods and drinks you routinely consume.
Read on for ways to effectively track your food for weight loss and other health goals.
Track Fiber Intake
Fiber plays an important part in keeping us healthy. Tracking it can improve your entire diet. It can be found in fruits, nuts, and whole grains. Women should aim for 25 grams of fiber, and men should strive for 38 grams per day. Focusing on fiber will cause you to reach for healthier foods.
Track Hunger and Fullness
Listen to your body. Learn your hunger and fullness signs. You might eat less if you eat when you are hungry instead of when you are starving. Familiarizing yourself with your fullness can keep your portions in check. You want to be satisfied after a meal but not miserable from eating too much.
Count Colors
Have some fun with tracking by focusing on colors. See how many colors you can consume throughout the day, particularly when it comes to your fruits and vegetables. Red, green, blue, and white foods can all give you different antioxidants and health-promoting nutrients such as potassium, fiber, and folate.
Note Meal Frequency
Keep track of each meal to improve energy, steady blood sugar levels, and boost the quality of your workouts. Skipping meals early in the day can lead to overeating later. It can also cause you to fall short of your protein and
fiber goals for the day.
Measure Water
Most people should drink at least half their body weight in ounces of water each day to stay hydrated. More active individuals may need to consume higher amounts. Invest in a water bottle you like and keep it filled. Tracking your water intake can help you get the amount you need each day.
The Bottom Line
Food tracking is great for many reasons. Tracking calories and macros can be great for weight loss, but it can also show you your habits. From water to fiber, tracking can help you achieve your health goals through a balanced diet.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Laurel, Md.