Counting Calories or Counting Fat

If you’ve ever tried reading the nutrition label on something you’re about to buy, then you know it can be confusing. What is really healthy for you and what isn’t? Should you worry more about calorie count or fat content?

It depends on what your goals are. If pure weight loss is your aim, you’ll want to pay more attention to calorie count. If you’re trying to reduce your cholesterol, then the fat content of your food may be more important. 

We all need some fat in our diets. Fats are for important for normal nerve functioning. They also provide energy and protect organs. For healthy adults, 20 to 35 percent of total daily calories should be from fat.

A great way to stay on top of it is by keeping a journal. List the foods you eat, their calorie and fat content. The type of fat makes a difference. Lowering your calorie intake may help you lose weight, but it might not necessarily make you healthier if you’re still eating the wrong kinds of fats. 

Eliminate trans-fats. These are found in baked goods, margarine and fried foods. Limit the amount of saturated fat you eat, which comes from butter, red meat and whole-fat dairy products. Replace saturated fats with healthy unsaturated fats found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and fish. 

Living a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean getting rid of all fats.  By keeping track of what fats you eat, you can keep the good and throw out the bad.