Calorie tracking killed my relationship with food
I need to vent. Tracked religiously for 18 months. Lost 35 lbs but also developed anxiety around untrackable meals, started avoiding social food situations, would skip meals rather than eat something I couldn't log, and obsessively recalculated macros multiple times daily.
Stopped 3 months ago and slowly recovering. Has anyone else experienced this?
Thank you for sharing this. What you describe is unfortunately common — a form of disordered eating that can develop from any food tracking. Please consider a therapist who specializes in eating disorders.
Important thread. Pinning a link in our sidebar. If anyone relates: National Eating Disorders Association helpline is 1-800-931-2237.
Went through something similar. Working with a registered dietitian who helped me transition to mindful eating was the breakthrough. Took 6 months to fully let go.
Been there. Tracked my way to losing 60 lbs but it became obsessive. Same signs — avoiding untrackable meals, anxiety, rechecking logs. Stopping was hard but necessary.
This is why I tell people tracking should be a phase, not a lifestyle (for most). Use it to learn, then move on.
I struggle with this too honestly. Without tracking I overeat significantly. Haven't found the middle ground yet. Glad you're recovering.
Clinically this aligns with orthorexia. I strongly echo the recommendation for professional help. Nutrition tools should serve your health, not undermine it.
Thank you all so much. I am working with a therapist and it's helping. Wanted to share in case it helps someone recognize the signs early. Tracking isn't bad for everyone — it just became bad for ME.