So, I've been writing down my meals, guestimating the calories, and then entering into MFP to find out actual calories and micronutrients.
I have already discovered a few things that suprised me!
- I'm a total Faddict (my new name for a fat addict). See right my pie chart for today. Oopsy. Being a Faddict is not necessarily a bad thing if you choose mostly good fats (I've been ODing on them for years without putting on weight or having a heart attack), but it is easier to go over on your calories with fat because it is more calorie dense than carbs and protien.
- The fats I love: Avocado, Macadamias, Virgin Olive Oil (in salads), Coconut Oil (cooking), Cheese, Eggs
- I am consistently underestimating the number of calories in my food. It was a shock to me how much calories are in a teaspoon of fat (coconut oil/olive oil), cheese and some other items.
- Oaty Pancakes - Estimated @ 350; Actual @ 420
- Cheesy omelette and salad - Estimated @ 500; Actual @ 590.
I have also verified something that does not surprise me. Logging all your foods is massively tedious. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel... MFP remembers what I've entered in previous days so the process is getting faster and faster. Before long I'll have a good idea of the calories in my favorite foods, and how to mix and match for optimum macronutrient levels.
One thing that does interest me is how to get enough protein in. I'm not the biggest fan of meat; I like the odd bit of chicken or organic red meat in the evening, but the idea of eating chicken 2 or 3 times throughout the day does not resonate with me. I usually get protein in through eggs and fish, but these are heavy in oils too. I might have to resign myself to being a faddict for life if I want to get enough protein and maintain a way of eating that is right for me.
Some great sources of vegetarian protein are listed here: How to Get Protein on a Vegetarian Diet. Might have to give some of these a whirl.
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