Can You Relate? Turning Nutrition into a Numbers Game

The following article was written by Heinen’s Chief Dietitian, Melanie Jatsek RD, LD.

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When was the last time you went to a restaurant and ordered an entree of protein with a side of magnesium, and for dessert, a bowl of carbohydrates?

It’s a silly question, isn’t it? Silly, but in a way that’s exactly what we do when we focus on counting calories or grams of macros like protein instead of striving to make overall healthier food choices.

First, what exactly are macros? Carbohydrates, protein, and fat are the main macronutrients in food, which supply your body with calories and energy. They are called “macro” nutrients because your body requires them in large amounts.

Micronutrients are essential vitamins and minerals your body requires in smaller amounts. They are calorie-free and include vitamins A and C and the minerals calcium and iron, to name just a few.

If you’re among the many people who count macros or calories, I’m sure you have a good reason. I want you to know I hear you and applaud your commitment to improving your health. It’s not always easy!

That said, here are a few downsides to what I call “eating by numbers”, that you may not be aware of:

1. It’s daunting! No matter how motivated you are at the beginning, whenever an activity becomes taxing, it’s only a matter of time before you throw in the towel. I feel this way about puzzles, which is why I’ve yet to complete one larger than 50 pieces!
2. It’s unnatural. It’s good to be aware of what you’re eating, but there’s a fine line between awareness and obsession. When thoughts are fixated on grams or calories, it’s not uncommon to develop a dysfunctional relationship with food.
3. You can lose sight of the bigger picture. When you “eat by numbers” it’s easy to lose sight of why you are counting in the first place (i.e. to improve your health). You may find yourself choosing foods based solely on their low calorie or high protein content without regard to the nutritional quality of the food. For example, diet cola is low in calories but loaded with artificial ingredients like aspartame and preservatives.

Key Takeaway

Grams and calories aren’t tasty, but Superfood Turkey Chili (high in protein) with a Heinen’s Spring Mix salad (high in magnesium) and a bowl of fruit salad (high in fiber-rich, healthy carbs) for dessert, certainly are!

If you’re looking to break free from the numbers game and get back to eating for health, take a virtual store tour with me and learn how to stock your kitchen to support healthy eating habits.

By Melanie Jatsek RD, LD

Heinen's Chief Dietitian, Melanie Jatsek, RD, LD believes that the answer to a strong, healthy and vibrant body lies within. As a published author with over 24 years of experience in wellness program development, health coaching and professional speaking, Melanie offers expert guidance through Heinen's Club Fx™ program to help customers take inspired action to build the healthy body they were meant to live in without giving up their favorite foods.