I Took My Calorie Counting Video Down… Let Me Explain

Hey everyone I’m Abbey Sharp welcome to Abbey’s Kitchen. In todays video, we will be talking about consuming and burning calories.
A FEW DISCLAIMERS
1) The information in this video is for education and entertainment purposes only, so you should always speak to a health care provider about your unique health needs.
2) Please use this video (as with all of my review videos) as educational, not as unique recommendations.
3) Please be kind in the comments.
4) Trigger warning to those with disordered eating tendencies.
5) Don’t forget to subscribe to this channel and ring the little bell so you never miss out!
Research by Abbey Courtenay, RD
RESEARCH LINKS
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12963...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
www.mdpi.com/2075-4426/7/2/3
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17116...
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/1...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
academic.oup.com/nutritionrev...
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22367...
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29131...
www.fao.org/3/y5022e/y5022e04...
www.fda.gov/regulatory-inform...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29544...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
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If you liked this video, please leave me a comment below with your thoughts and let me know who you want me to review next!
With Science & Sass,
Xoxo Abbey

[@racheltheshadesoforange8700]

I think that challenge of your videos comes from the fact that your audience is now large enough to include different groups and your video content tends to shift tone/perspective to regularly keep all of your audience watching. People looking for your videos for weight loss, health improvement, etc have very different goals than people recovering from eating disorders for example. I find that you try to appeal to everyone in order to have wider appeal but sometimes that causes some inconsistencies in your video messages

[@AbbeysKitchen]

i understand that, thanks for the feedback. yes its definitely hard to cater to all needs.

[@TheShadesofOrange]

@@AbbeysKitchen and my comment wasn't meant as criticism... just a "we can't please them all"

[@LaurenAnne6]

I totally agree and respect that Abbey and her team does their best to be mindful and respectful to anyone watching.

[@verenas3536]

I thought pretty much the same.

[@MsLinoi]

That is a great point! For me, a healthy but balanced diet is my goal. I don't want to lose weight, I just want to keep a healthy viewpoint on food. So I did not feel attacked by the previous video, I just took it as interesting facts & It made me realize why I may have struggled to lose weight, when I counted calories and did intermittent fasting. I wished I had known her account back then because it would have helped me so much!

[@gnomiehomie5368]

I’ve had success with calorie counting in the past and I think it can be really useful, but for me personally, I tend to start focusing more on calorie intake instead of nutrition and listening to my natural hunger cues. Once I stopped counting calories and just focused on eating a balanced diet with lots of whole foods and lots of protein, intuitive eating became SO much easier. I think I struggled with intuitive eating before because I wasn’t eating very nutritiously. I will say though that having calorie counted in the past does give me a general idea of how much I am consuming now so I can make sure I’m eating enough, which is helpful. Just my personal experience! Everyone is different 🙂

[@thealiceftw]

totally agree!

[@Zyrock]

When I track my calories I also look at my micronutrients You should try that as well

[@BriLamberson]

I see absolutely nothing wrong with how you presented this information. I’m one of those people who watch all the way through every single video you make. That being said, it’s cool to see you bring even more clarity to a very complex subject. I’m so looking forward to your next videos on this topic of weight loss and management. Thanks for taking time out of your vacation! Now go get some sleep. 💕

[@emilyanne4802]

I find it helpful to count calories - it really helps me to reset my eating patterns when I've fallen into bad habits. I have PCOS and POTS, and tend to gravitate towards sweet and rich foods when stressed. Tracking my food intake helps me to be accountable for my food choices, which profoundly impacts my health. One binge can cause a POTS flare, and perpetuate even more pcos cravings! But if I am tracking, I am more likely to make healthier choices that help me feel better. I eat if I am really hungry, even if it puts me over my "budget" though, respecting my body's needs for that day. :)

[@katelyndombach4726]

Thank you for updating this! I am one of those people that uses calorie counting but I didn't feel attacked by your video it made some really good points I didn't know before, that doesn't change it being the best option for me. I was very disappointed to not be able to go back and read all the comments I got notifications for including one from you! Id love to hear what you have to say about people that have ADHD or other things that effect body signals and stand in the way of intuitive eating.

[@crashlikewaves]

I feel the same way! I missed the video and was like what happened?

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Yes parts of IE are not very inclusive for folks with adhd who need structure. But that doesn’t mean strict calorie counting is necessary.

[@clairey165]

I agree! I went into calorie counting having listened to the Maintenance Phase podcast which discussed a lot of similar issues with calorie counting. While everything Abbey pointed out in the original video was true, I actually found it helped benefit my calorie counting as it helped me take it a bit less seriously and forgive myself when it “didn’t work”. I liked the video, but appreciate the clarity

[@carynwhiteford7510]

I'm really happy and proud of you for reposting this. We live in a world where more and more often, people get upset when their worldview or what they believe to be "truth" is challenged and they attack the individual who made them question themselves. But the problem with that is when we refuse to hear dissenting opinions or refuse to seek knowledge that's outside our comfort zone, we stop learning. There is so much incorrect and inaccurate information out there that people don't have the wherewithal to take down, regardless of who it may harm or upset. While I understand your reasoning for removing it in the first place, I am so so happy you stuck to your guns and reposted. Haters gon' hate Abbey and the most important thing is to always remain true to why you started this channel in the first place and why all of us tune into your channel every week. Keep fighting the good fight.

[@carriethreads]

I am so glad you reposted this, thank you. I hope if there are others like me out there who have been working out and tracking assiduously, take a moment to stop and think--what if most of those sites of possible inaccuracy are true for you? What if calculators overestimate my calorie needs, nutrition labels underestimate the calories per serving, heart rate monitors overestimate how many calories I'm burning, I underestimate how much I'm eating--all of those being off at once even less than 10% could lead to me actually eating more than I'm burning even if I think I'm doing everything right. Cue major frustration and despair. Which is not to say that tracking food is useless; I've learned a lot from it. But the CICO formula hasn't worked for me and my plateaus are now inclines. I don't know what to do, but it's a weight off my mind to have someone outline the possible sites of margins of error. It reassures me that I'm not crazy or broken. Thank you Abbey!

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thanks for sharing this

[@taraemb]

I have been watching your videos for years and I appreciate your honest communication and use of data! Good for you for taking down a video in need of some serious R&R time. You’re an inspiration to other content producers out there by showing how to have healthy boundaries with your job and life.

[@gaurigatha]

Thank you for always being clear and also talking to those of us where it does not work just like this and sometimes having felt like a failure because of that! I appreciate you and it

[@laurissa1790]

I really appreciated your video on calorie counting and this one as well. I have Gastroparesis and have been desperately trying to gain weight after my last procedure so I don't get put on a feeding tube. I was using calorie apps and could not figure out why I getting enough calories down but not gaining weight. Now I've been able to relax and not stress calories, which has been wonderful and helped me relax enough to settle my stomach enough to eat a little more. Probably not at all your intention or intended audience of the video at all, but I did want you to know that I appreciated it and this video as well. :)

[@emilinelyell8954]

Thank you thank you for making this video and the update. Just started calorie counting again because it is the thing that works for me but I def needed this reminder to let go of preconceived notions about results/timeline because this is not a fail proof plan. And wow, I was blown away by the info you provided about how imprecise the calculations for the energy in foods are!

[@ryanwilking17]

Thank you for always educating those around you, and for spreading awareness and accuracy based on science and research!

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thank you!

[@ire4355]

This video is such a clear reflection of how people are in 2022. Trying to convey your message without offending anyone is like walking on hot lava. CHILL, PEOPLE!

[@NatalieFamula]

people can't even stand when a youtuber doesn't agree with them 🙄

[@marshareece6655]

@@NatalieFamula she doesn’t agree with anything or anyone. I have watched so many videos and she tears everything apart. What exactly does she agree with? Some people actually want to lose weight and that is OK.

[@NatalieFamula]

@@marshareece6655 its ok to have an "unpopular" opinion! Part of Abbey's appeal is that she goes against the food & diet myths we hear all day long. It's ok to lose weight or want to lose weight no one ever said that wasn't 😆 this video just says hey calorie counting might not work for ya. If people cannot handle that message then watch something else. There are millions of videos on youtube!

[@ire4355]

@@marshareece6655 That's the point! She doesn't have to agree with anything or anyone. It's not black or white. She chooses to show the grays of each option and THAT'S OKAY :'). The point is when people notice that she isn't talking about the pros of what worked for them, they freak out. If calorie counting does work for them, then I don't see why they get too vulnerable about it. That's the difference between empathy vs sympathy. You can simply accept that others think differently without having to agree with them

[@NatalieFamula]

@@B_27 You are proving the point of @Ire here. She's allowed to have an opinion! She's a youtuber. She reviews people's diets and explains how they could improve. Its not personal! I find it ridiculous that we live in a society where people get offended if someone has a different opinion then them. Hey if you don't like her suggestions thats fine, don't follow em. I've watched almost all of Abbey's videos and she actually makes suggestions that they could improve their satisfaction if they made it a hunger crushing combo. It doesnt mean they are "doing it wrong" its just a tip to stay full.

[@lissydaseinhorn632]

Thank you Abby, this will help so much people, especially those who are obsessed with kalorie counting 💗

[@marissachapman4078]

I actually think this is my favorite video of yours so far. This is excellent information and the history of calorie "measuring" is super fascinating. I appreciate that you included info on the gut microbiome as we're learning how important it is in all aspects of health. I'm curious if you've done any research on how best to support gut health through nutrition. Thanks!

[@dianaschanning2944]

I enjoy your videos. I like the variety of topics and the education and science behind your explanations. I’m 56 and enjoy the learning. I love that you keep it so real.

[@vivianferral7881]

Videos of yours like the last one really helped me stop some unhealthy behaviors, when I found your videos I had a pretty severe ED and watching your videos played a big part in how I got better

[@MsAussieSheila]

Thank you for posting it again. There is a lot of good knowledge for people to have.

[@valeriacunico5207]

Lots of love Abbey!:) just wanted to let you know you've been changing my life for the better...very grateful for you and this channel:)

[@AbbeysKitchen]

We love that

[@thatbee3585]

Agree!!!!

[@wendoxia]

Agreed

[@alexandrahoward3686]

I always appreciate your videos, good or ill. As I was listening to a Maintenance Phase episode about The Trouble With Calories, it wasn't news to me what you brought up in your first video, but I suppose I can see how other people who don't have the same perspective could be shocked, or aggravated by the information.

[@madisonjones8784]

I watched your original calorie counting video, and I personally have been counting calories for a few months now. I didn't find that video to be offensive or discouraging to the results I've experienced. I actually really appreciated learning about the science (as I always do with your fantastic + kind videos) as I can now view my tracking with a grain of salt. Love you, love your videos!

[@lovelesswing458]

Same here! I am currently calories counting doing 1200 a day or so. I didn't realize how many calories were in things and has really helped me become mindful of what I'm eating (or just stuffing in my mouth mindlessly). Once I am on a good schedule, I too will move away from calorie counting so strictly, taking the knowledge I have gained from knowing what foods give me what and focus on nutrition, which I'm sure I'll have low calorie days and higher calorie days but I'll be eating more wholesomely.

[@nicolemoser7892]

@@lovelesswing458 1200 is typically not enough for an adult woman. Make sure you eat enough 😊 But I like calorie counting too! I don’t tie my self worth or take it too seriously though like some people do.

[@jenniferkindschi755]

Abbey, I liked this video so much I watched it twice! I haven’t seen the comments from the first one. But, honestly, if people were unkind, I would just try to ignore it. It really is possible to disagree with information, or find it does not apply to you personally, without getting upset and lashing out at the person imparting the information. If people can’t be as nice as they expect you to be, they still have more to learn. Please don’t be deterred from making similar future videos.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

thank you!!!

[@sarachristine1035]

No worries! Your perspective is always of value and my teenage self who used calorie counting as a form of restriction would have benefitted from that video!

[@tanyasutherland5814]

It’s upsetting that you had to take it down. That sort of information can be tough for the general public. You have a large audience that enjoy the information and study dietetics themselves. It’s too bad people didn’t take the warnings seriously. You should almost post the harder ones on a link only option through your website! I love all your videos and I’d hate for you to have to make your videos more sensitive by hiding information.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

totally. it is very hard to be challenged on these topics

[@kellyc9896]

Damn, wish I saw the video before it was taken down 😅

[@verenas3536]

Tanya, it is an adapted reupload.

[@isralyechegaray]

Thank you! I really appreciate the effort you put into these.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

My pleasure!

[@falynns.974]

Unrelated - loving the hair! Haven’t watched totally yet but excited to hear your thoughts on this topic as someone who used to calorie count obsessively.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thank you

[@holleyjay1122]

I found last weeks video super helpful! It confirmed what my heart was telling me. I deleted my calorie app from my phone, and have really enjoyed the freedom of not counting. Thanks for all you do! Signed, Someone who has been miserably “eating at a deficit” for months and gained 8 lbs 🤪.

[@dancingwithgravity]

Thank you so much for taking the time to put together this helpful information. I couldn't care less about calories, so I find the history and nuances of this all to be quite fascinating.

[@missg8183]

Thank you so much for reuploading!

[@celestialcircledance]

Calorie counting is the most effective tool I'v ever used but I do think were not all the same and people who are too obsessive or don't like to crunch numbers may need a different approach .

[@AbbeysKitchen]

totally

[@wendyledley8892]

I have never commented on a video (I'm actually just a social media voyeur 😁😁) but since I discovered Abbey's videos about three weeks ago and have watched most of them I just had to speak up to say that I applaud her message and I have greatly benefited from her content. Thank you so very much!!

[@ZoeStibiVocalCoach]

Awesome video. Thanks for re publishing. I don't see any issues at all. Calorie counting has helped me see the macro split in my foods and especially to see how many calories (albeit inaccurately) in drinks and snacks.

[@gushodges8320]

I love your videos. Thanks for all you do!!❤️

[@Laura-gw3xo]

Thank you for your work. Highly appreciated.

[@BagznBirdz]

From what I've noticed from several people's diets is that tracking macros should be combined with calorie counting to get results, just counting calories seems to cause more problems than anything else. I don't count calories, but try to concentrate on eating enough protein, good fats and lots of different colors. I also allow treats if I want them, enjoy the treat with a clear conscience and move on. It's worked as I have lots more energy and my ED hasn't lifted its ugly head in a good while. Pure calorie counting did just the opposite.

[@coreenaschwartz7676]

Love this video! Super informative and eye opening. Thank you!

[@sashem3928]

absolutely love this video - so informative!! Thank you Abbey!

[@CherrySoda9-9]

I commented on the original video (gently, not aggressively) just to share how calorie counting had worked for me, but I completely understand that it's an imperfect science and didn't disagree with your thoughts, overall. After counting exclusively for a year and losing 50 pounds, I'm now at a healthy weight but still continuing to do "gentle tracking". I have a much better idea of how many calories are in most of the things I eat, but I do need to keep an eye on things. I aim for a range now instead of a specific number. I feel like trying to just eat intuitively without keeping a rough calorie estimate would not work for me. I think some people have the idea that anyone who counts calories has some sort of unhealthy, restrictive mindset, but I would disagree with that. It works really well for some people, but not for others, and everyone needs to do what's best for them. Appreciate the effort you put into your videos!

[@AbbeysKitchen]

i also would disagree with that- a lot of folks can "diet" without doing harm.

[@rhi963]

yay! thank you for reuploading a new version of the video! I recently saw a post on an ED subreddit whose OP accused their friend of lying about gaining weight on 800 calories a day, because thats impossible and would be "defying laws of thermodynamics" and NO ONE would listen to the idea that she could be telling the truth to the best of her ability, they all said she HAD to be purposefully lying or miscounting by a lot. and as fallable as calorie counting is, if youre to the point in your restriction youre consuming 800 calories its really unlikely to me that that person would miscount them by that much. this video helps to break apart that misconception and damaging mindset and general consensus in the ED space that CICO is absolutely infallable law when done correctly.

[@MeganSeibel]

Abby the work you do is amazing ❤

[@EleriOnline]

The original video was fine but do appreciate the added notes in this one. For me calorie, macro and particularly carb tracking is so useful as I'm type 1 diabetic and need to work out how much insulin to dose with my meals and snacks, which is made so much easier with tracking apps and takes a lot of uncertainty and guesswork out. So for me even if it's not 100% accurate its better than having no idea what I'm consuming. I loved what you said about a general knowledge and understanding of macronutrients and nutrition and I think that's helpful for most people. I also really appreciate that you said calorie tracking can work for folks too. I find that when I've been on weight loss journeys it can ensure I'm in a deficit, and not too large of a deficit (obviously again not 100% accurate but if you've tracked your maintenance to roughly 2000 and then you drop to 1500-1700 the deficit will still be there relatively, even if the exact numbers are off.) When I've lost weight in the past, like in college when I dropped a lot of weight very quickly it was because I had no idea about how many calories I roughly needed and would just eat salads, veggie 'ham', sugar free jelly and occasional 'diet' packet of crisps. I've since worked out that I was eating around 700 calories a day, which is ridiculously low, and was also terrified to eat bread, pasta, cereal or even bananas. Now that I track I see that I can easily include all foods and fit them into my calorie 'budget' without over or underrating. For me calorie tracking is very freeing and far less restrictive than other diets out there. You do you everyone :)

[@AllisonMariePhD]

I really liked that video and found it useful in understanding the imperfections in both counting and the science behind it.

[@biancabent3894]

Can’t wait for your next video on sustaining weight loss. This was super helpful.

[@imayoukitsune]

I'm glad you reuploaded this video. It's a great compliment to the episode that the podcast "Maintenance Phase" made on calories! Also check out "Health at Every Size" by Dr. Lindo Bacon!

[@peaceandlove2014]

I'm sooo glad you re-uploaded the video! I hadn't had a chance to watch it the first time and I was so sad that it was taken down. Another great resource for this is Giles Yeo, a molecular geneticist who studies obesity. Look him up on KZbin he goes into even more of the nitty-gritty for the science of 'why calories don't count'! I personally find this information so validating because I have found it so hard to stick to calorie counting. I don't want to have to log everything I eat! Thats so obnoxious! And I inevitably stop. Thank you Abby!

[@romanticdove]

I want to thank you for your videos. I have been following your advice for 3 weeks now and ive noticed myself get better with nutrition and started to notice my hunger and fullness cues. Im by no means 'cured' of my BED but im feeling better within myself and noticing less binges.

[@cbitter7159]

This is honestly helpful to hear about the ALTERNATIVES to calorie counting for weight loss. Over the past year I have suffered from vertigo and bacame incredibly scared to move and do normal life activities. Because of this I gained a substantial amount of weight quite quickly, which I am totally fine with because I was going through a chronic medical event so I knew my body was going to change. Now that I am feeling better (not 100% but enough to resume normal life) I have found that my mobility, strength, cardio, and overall health have decreased as my weight and inactivity increased. I really want to start "feeling like myself" again in terms of my health and activity level and yes, my weight. BUT calorie counting is so difficult and imperfect and just plain hard to keep track of and do consistantly. So it is really affirming to hear that I'm not the only one and that there ARE other options to safely start a weight loss phase.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

So glad !!

[@Amyjwashere]

I suffer with vertigo too (Maniere's), and certain movements are definitely challenging like yoga (I miss yoga!). I've found that stationary dumbell movements help, especially when supported by a bench. I'm so glad life is returning back to "normal" for you tho!

[@joepeijkenduijn]

Personally, the “problem” I saw in the original video was more about the emphasis on minor deviations and inaccuracies. I felt a bit belittled. A lot of people know the inaccuracies and still use the method with margins of error taken into account. Not like “oh this slice of bread is 264 cals so i must have exactly 177 cals of cheese on there” or whatever. No, I think a lot of people use the method more like “OK this is around 250, +_ 50, so I'm still on track for a slight caloric deficit”. I think that calorie counting can be a healthy and gentle tool in the weight loss toolbox, and I just felt a bit sad that it was dismissed so harshly. Thank you for the clarification in this video!

[@bluemoore5874]

Exactly! I now use the tracking apps to keep a record on what I've eaten (whether healthy or not), how much nutrition I've had overall, where I should make changes, etc. I know it's not a 100% accurate, since even while measuring there are going to be some discrepancies, but it's about being in a range, so that even if you add 200-300 kcals to "be safe" you're still doing relatively well.

[@Thewhimsicalmedium]

Right. First time commenting here. I generally love the content here. I think it had nothing to do with the content and everything to do with the tone. This is a sensitive, triggering subject and deserved a different less holier than thou tone.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

i actually dont think most people know about the inaccuracies. whenever i mention the legal rule of food packaging people lose their minds. this is not common knowledge.

[@maggiep6605]

The few times I have tried to strictly count calories i have tended to both become obsessive and try to get as close as I can without going over. That's also why I don't go near weight watchers. But I can still have an understanding of what's in my food and how much I'm eating in a way that is much healthier for me. It gets me to look at what is in my food beyond calories too.

[@crashlikewaves]

Calorie counting was helpful to me when I was under eating because I tend to under eat during times of stress and hate how it affects my sleep and energy levels and emotional state. I needed the meal reminders and wanted to keep track of what I was eating so I knew I was eating enough, especially fiber 😭. But I saw this as a temporary intervention. It’s unfortunate that calorie counting is often synonymous with restriction. It’s interesting to know her viewers are so restrictive… that’s honestly really surprising to me. I thought we were past that… Now that I watched the video, maybe it would be helpful to define your terms in the beginning! Maybe there was some confusion about calorie counting vs restrictive eating, dieting and “lifestyle changes” ?? 🤷🏻‍♀️ diet culture has ripped off a lot of these terms unfortunately

[@AbbeysKitchen]

the algorithm has been REALLY strange lately. my videos arent reaching my usual people.

[@crashlikewaves]

@@AbbeysKitchen yikes! I hope it doesn’t make you reconsider your approach too much! Usually I really like reading the comments on your video. Have you consider patreon? Maybe a less accessible platform would helpful.

[@allmyducksinarow]

YES! I have this exact same experience with counting as well. I've had some people accuse me of disordered eating habits because I count calories. I like to count because it helps me make sure that I'm eating enough. Now that I'm trying to lose weight, it's important for me to count to make sure I'm not starving myself in an effort to lose weight. It's not a forever thing, one day I'll be comfortable without counting.

[@sarachristine1035]

I relate to this 100% I under eat when I am stressed as well and didn't have energy for work and felt terrible. Now that I count calories I have enough energy to get though the day!!

[@jennakelly7830]

@@Hat65 do you manage Abbey’s KZbin channel? I’m pretty sure that standard viewers can’t tell who is unsubscribing from someone’s channel unless they have access 😄 so you either manage her KZbin channel, you’ve hacked her account, or you are just making evidence lacking assumptions about her regular audience 💁‍♀️ Would love to know how you got those facts ☺️

[@m.gillett7655]

It’s been a really helpful video for me personally because I have struggled with not obsessing over calorie counting. I’ve lost 50lbs sustainably over the last year with a focus on gut health and strength training and no counting calories but just focus on nutritious foods with lots of fibre and protein ((HCC that S!)) but I find added sugar winding it’s way back into my day to day and gluten which were kind of forbidden this time last year. Your videos are helpful in explaining that no foods need to be off limits and we can eat in a way that nourishes us as a whole being. I think for me this is where i struggle to understand the role of calorie counting because it makes me feel allowed to have anything as long as it fits my macros but it’s actually not whole foods or great for my gut/digestion. So complex! I’m also hesitant because I can get really into tracking for weeks at a time then stop and go really far in the other direction which are clues that for me it’s not helpful in my goals which ultimately is to life a happy and healthy life. Counting can be a tool for some but I don’t know it’s sustainable for me.

[@roxannehoffman3684]

I enjoy your videos you’re always gonna have a few out there that will complain about it but because of watching you now I’m going to a nutritionist in my area to get myself set up to make sure I’m doing every thing right so thank you Abby for that

[@sandyedwards2681]

Btw the one calorie counting that seems pretty good overall is the new trend that restaurants-especially fast food-are now putting calories on the menu. That seems really helpful when eating out.

[@katelijnesommen]

I can see how it's helpful to some, but I feel pretty uncomfortable about it. I don't want to be thinking about the numbers when I'm eating out, which is a time when I usually try not to be too aware of calories. But when it's there, I can't help but be doing the math in my head. And I can imagine that for folks with OCD or an even more obsessive personality than mine it can even be truly triggering.

[@sandyedwards2681]

@@katelijnesommen I see what you mean. And I’m sorry that is probably the case not only for you but others. However, for me when I’m away from home and often in a work or social situation that I hadn’t planned to be in, having the calorie counts helps me to feel more empowered about food and menu choices. At home, I don’t do calorie counting at all but I do try to have mindful meal planning and meal prep that doesn’t stress me out too much. And being out and about and away from a somewhat safe system at home has at times been overwhelming, but the calorie counts feel like it has a little bit of information and that can be a comfort.

[@brittanygancarz2475]

I don’t know how much more explicit you could be about supporting everyone’s autonomy to do whatever the hell they want. I am currently counting calories, I find it really helps me be aware of my food choices, and it doesn’t stress me out, but it doesn’t offend me to discuss it’s limitations! Oooh, bring on the almonds!

[@asiginaakmiigwaan9200]

Yup, and ppl who have posted about this video cherry pick the info they want to post about the previous vid, especially the audience

[@tquirkyt7118]

❤️Love you, and appreciate your research, knowledge and channel. ❤️‼️❣️People are going to be awful if a message is not what they want to hear…it’s just the tone of the world now…which I’m finding to be exhausting. Why people don’t just stop watching, I will never understand. The negative energy people spend, instead of just moving on is astounding😡

[@autumnatencio4681]

I knew when I watched that video that no harm was meant by it. I know you always have the best intention behind your videos, but I really appreciate you coming back with this video. I personally felt like it was kind of saying that calorie counting was unhealthy when we know that that’s not inherently true. Calorie tracking has been my best way to lose weight because it’s helped me as a starting base to learn macros in general so I appreciate you coming back out with this video.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

So glad it’s been helpfil

[@krystenreynolds2234]

Abbey, I think this video was very informative and I found it helpful. I’ve been working with an intuitive eating/HAES RD for over a year and have been doing my own research on the side to supplement my meetings with her. I thought you did a great job of explaining calories and why calories in-calories out is problematic. Especially for those of us who have struggled with that approach and diet culture in general. I felt like you put value to those struggles, because you’re right, it doesn’t work for everyone, and others need to understand why. I personally really appreciated that. I would love more videos that include more about the science of nutrition. The info you included about almonds was so interesting!! I’m really looking forward to your video about why diets in general don’t work.

[@bozenapieprzyk5223]

Great explanation, thank you!

[@iDontCareAtAllllllll]

Hunger queues do not work for food addiction. I was always hungry and always craved high carb high sugar food. I was out of control and always felt I needed two of everything. Calorie counting worked for me. Even now I still go to food for comfort from time to time as in my past I was deprived. Obviously once I got to a lower weight I consulted with my dietician who gave me a new plan. It is an accurate way of loosing weight if you do it right with a professional.

[@Stettafire]

They don't work for any kinda ED if I'm honest. If you've been restrive for a long time you might not get hungry. You could easily work all day without eating anything at all, the reverse is also true. Honestly the black and white thinking around hunger ques and intuitive eating is just as dangerous as diet culture. Some people need and want structure and some people need to let go, there is no one size fits all approach

[@juliamary1587]

To be honest, this video doesn't make me want to be less rigid about calorie counting; it only makes me want to be MORE strict about calorie counting and overestimate the calories I consume to allow plenty of wiggle room for factors like inaccurate food labels

[@soniakhan9472]

I know how far I've come in my ED recovery because I was disappointed that almonds have fewer calories than we thought, as the fats are unavailable. I need those good fats! 😂

[@7ScarletRoses]

I love this and I agree 😂♥️

[@avarielavariel1632]

It is a very sensitive topic and communicate it without being criticied at all, there is no way to please everyone. However i do appreciate your effort in making and edditing the video ❤ I hope you have a good holiday break with your family Abbey! 😊

[@sonjas5125]

Loved the first video and love this one too! Both actually made me feel more hopeful. Calorie counting triggers perfectionist thinking for me. I had been considering going back to it. Instead, I’m going to add more veggies. I wish I had had these videos 40 years ago. You rock!!

[@hanna108]

That video personally helped me, but I guess that you always have a different impact on a different person, which is normal and understandable! You are brave for addressing the subject of your video, calorie counting in itself is very controversial so sadly it is no surprise that your video had a lot of reactions

[@kaleido9631]

I really appreciate this video. The more i practice intuitive eating, the more i realize how crazy diet culture is. *Balance* is so key.

[@thekiahjane]

Love you Abbey. Sure your reasons are making sure we’re okay ❤️

[@AbbeysKitchen]

:)

[@Abby-sg6jh]

Abbey- I totally respect this video, and really agree with it. I think that there is no accurate way to track your calories daily. So, I am actually coming from another side of it- struggling with severe stomach and digestive disorders for 8 years causing extreme weight loss. When I FINALLy *somewhat* healed my stomach, my appetite came back strong but I didn't know how to eat, nor did I want to go back to a dietician to put me on an elimination diet or a diet full of fruit juices and gatorade because I knew what my body liked. So I just went for it on my own, and turns out I was under eating during the day, and at night I would have "binges" which weren't really binges it was me listening to my body and my appetite was strong. I started tracking to see what my body wanted, and noticed that I learned how to evenly spread my calories throughout the day and it actually controlled my anxiety. I still do track today *loosely* , because when I am let loose to eat intuitively, I do not eat enough, and yes I do give myself food freedom and have never subscribed to diet mentality. I think it all comes down to bio-individuality. This video is a perfect form of education showing people that you do not have to count calories or macros or whatever you think you have to do. You can try it and see if it works. If it does, great. If it doesn't, great. You do you. But this video is full of really great, strong, evidence-based information. Thanks, Abbey.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thanks!

[@nicolesapphire3696]

I don’t know why anyone would be upset by this video, it was very informative. I’m glad you reposted it, I like hearing about the science behind nutrition, dieting and the complexities of it.

[@mariannewm26]

I personally didn't feel triggered by your first video, I actually found it super informative as always! Thank you!

[@Mwriggles]

As an Ed girlie I’m gonna sit this one out but thank you for continuing to make amazing content Abbey and hope you had a great holiday 💗💗

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thank you!

[@briannapinkney4966]

I didn’t get a chance to see your video, but honestly I’m sure it would have actually been helpful to watch. When I was pregnant (I’m 18 months PP), I had to be mindful about my calorie intake because I didn’t feel I was eating enough. It’s so challenging when you’re pregnant because you are told you’re eating too much or too little. Now that I’m PP and have a toddler, being mindful about our caloric intake is really complicated and can be stressful because I don’t know if we are eating too much or too little. So I try to just go based on how I feel. But a video where you go more in-depth on calories I feel could be really helpful to a lot of people. I understand why you took it down though…. Really challenging position to be in 🥺💕

[@elisequah577]

You mentioned that the nutrition label can be inaccurate, I’m curious about the carb amount on the label? As I’m a t1 diabetic, so I rely on the label to count how much insulin I need to inject.

[@deliahanne]

I love this because nutrition 'information' is shared all around, often without factual background or context. Made me think of water consumption recommendations. 2l is what I was taught to drink on a normal day. In the winter or when I'm home all day that might be right. But I'm taking my bike on workdays, playing with my child and regularly checking my body's needs (aka. checking my pee) and I'm usually way better off with 3-3.5l. Also now I'm sick and therefore need more. I don't know how it works in other countries but in Germany there is basically no obligatory nutrition education for medical students so even doctors sometimes rely on misconceptions

[@leniolesch896]

I totally agree to you. A calorie is so complex. And it’s not the same whether it’s from a nut or a fried potatoe.

[@maaripoim9049]

So sorry to hear that you have to take videos down due to overwhelming negative feedback, when in fact the content is scientifically apt, well researched, and no offensive remarks are being made. I think it's not your fault that people don't focus and watch the full video till the end. I have a feeling that some of the audience is just here to bully. I think it's reasonable to assume that this could be some fan club of a few of these online content creators whose problematic messages you critically address in your videos.

[@catemc2323]

Dear Jesus Abbey. I can’t believe you had to even make this video 🤦🏻‍♀️ Loved the last video when I seen it. Some folk are as mad as the hills, if they were moaning about it 🙄 Keep up the good work 💚🍀

[@Lechuza_Chicana]

Just remember that someone will always be offended about something and you can't make everyone happy . I love your videos bc I feel like you use facts and logic , that's hard to come by .

[@shandacrouch4946]

I think you have to stop apologizing because someone is offended or triggered. That's their own issue they need to resolve, not yours. Any video you post will have someone who disagrees and that's ok, that's what strikes up conversation. Don't apologize for your content, post what you want

[@LydiaKrow]

I feel exactly the same. So well said - if you let people know what is coming and they still get upset, that's on them. I like the info, not the excuses/justification/apologizing.

[@JM1911A1]

I love that this is back up and with some extra context and extra comforting explanations at front so hopefully those who were upset previously understand that this is coming from a point of information sharing and support! ❤️

[@BB-oq2mt]

I’m on mobile and can’t search, but do you have a specific video about gut micro biome? Like the types of bacteria associated with the foods and how sugar without padded fibers feeds into bad bacteria. And how the green tea flat tummy colon detoxers changes that environment.

[@elizabethlandis3922]

I appreciate your video about calorie counting. I have been on some bonkers doses of prednisone for over half a year for my autoimmune disorder and I gained 30lbs in 4 months from it. While prednisone kept my body from attacking my optic nerves and retinas (kept me from going blind) it made it impossible not to gain weight (prednisone also causes muscle wasting and bone density loss which makes exercising hard). Calorie counting didn’t help in the slightest. Watching what I ate didn’t help. Prednisone mimics cortisol which is the hormone that influences fat and it also keeps you from sleeping. There was really not much I could do while on 60mg to stop it without losing my sight as well. To hear you mentioned calorie counting doesn’t help for certain medications and hormones made me feel like it’s not my fault for gaining this weight. I feel validated because I hear it out in the world and not just in my medical bubble. Sure, my doctors have all said it, but when everyone else is saying the opposite and judging you based on that, what my doctors say doesn’t change how guilty I feel, how I “let” the weight gain happen to me. So thank you for this video on calorie counting. I appreciate it!

[@bandana_rathore]

What I have come to practice is that if I find something new that I want to include in my wellness journey: 1. Research about it a lot. 2. At least give it 6 months before hopping on it's substitute. I have PCOD and I have included following things that are currently helping me loose weight slowly and have made my periods really regular. Sleep by 11 pm. 8 hrs of sleep. Walking 1 hr (i live in a hilly area), drink 1.5 ltr water everyday. slow weight training 3 times. And loosely count calories without restriction to process food. And even in homemade food try to have a balanced meal. Increased my protein intake from both veg and non veg sources. I try to make things hunger crushing combos. I do eat icream once a week or sometimes twice a week. Saturday nights are obviously takeout nights. And I have been loosing 1-2 pounds every month.

[@amyvandrunenfitness9792]

The video that was taken down didn’t resonate with me, but at the same time I didn’t feel the need to get all oppositional about it, lol You’re entitled to post what you feel is accurate and not take it down, in my opinion. I enjoy your videos if I back them 100% and also if they are thought provoking in a new direction. All love, Abby 🤗🤗🤗

[@thisishersong]

NON-strict calorie counting with an app freed me from a lot of the negative things you speak about often, like eating a fake food to satiate a craving vs eating my craving, or feeling guilt/shame when I indulge, learning balance. If I knew I was meeting friends for pizza and the salad option wouldn’t satiate me, I made different choices for breakfast/lunch to make room for it. Doing ONLY this, I lost more weight than any diet I ever tried without even having time to exercise. This also worked for my parents at the same time. The best part is it’s been sustainable and I don’t even need the app anymore and can eat more intuitively.

[@allisons8480]

This video confirmed a lot of suspicions I had around MFP and Fitbit. I started calorie counting on MFP earlier this year as a way to both lose weight and take control of my overeating habits. I come from a family culture of overeating and I have ADHD which just makes it worse. I saw my daily recommendation of calories on those apps and I didn't feel like they were super accurate. When I was eating about the same amount as the recommendation, I just maintained my weight. Once I cut back about 200-300 cals less, I started losing about 1 lb a week, the amount the app said I would be losing with their recommendation. I'll still use the apps because it's helped me not over-eat and I enjoy seeing the statistics for my sleep and workouts on Fitbit. But I will definitely take the calorie recommendations with a grain of salt.

[@nicolesandhercats]

So glad to see a new version of this video posted! I was one of the people in strong support of making sure this info is still out there for people. Your empathy never goes unappreciated. You have wonderful science communication skills

[@Updog89]

I have horrible food intuition because of ADHD, depression, and PCOS. And I run a lot, which weirdly blunts my appetite rather than makes it grow. Idk why but it does. So if I don’t use a calorie counting app I don’t know if I’m eating enough calories and the right macros. It has helped me better understand how to portion out my plate so I don’t undereat or overeat. And it doesn’t conflict with my ability to enjoy treats or foods at a all, if anything it gives me more confidence to follow my intuition as long as I’m meeting my basic need for fuel and protein!

[@sarakjeldsen769]

Thank you for doing this video! I noticed calorie counting helped me lose weight back in my mid-20s, but once I was at 130 pounds, the weight loss slowed drastically even though I was doing the same workouts & same daily deficit of 500-800 calories. It was probably my body trying to retain the weight as I was going into underweight territory for my height. In contrast, I noticed when I worked out and ate what I wanted, I was able to build some muscle and be "small" without caring about calories.

[@AbbeysKitchen]

Thanks for sharing❤️

[@theonlycma]

I was sad to see the video go! It was kind of a revelation for me. Thanks for giving this update.

[@brooklynsbaby4367]

I used to be one of those people that would get mad at you for this video. Well, I only had success with calorie counting once. Every other time was either unsuccessful, or it would rapidly slow down my metabolism and I would gain even more weight than my starting point. Now, I totally understand why you would make such a video. This time calorie counting just gave me anxiety and fucked up eating habits even more. I started out strong but it slowly made me lose my mind. 3 months in and I am ravenous, binging on foods I don't even like and having nightmares about overeating. I quit a few days ago, because I was going crazy and the weird cravings stopped. I feel like myself again and it is so freeing, I tear up writing this.

[@TheMinlou]

i've been a calories counter for ages and have went up and down with my weight for years. once i stopped and just ate what made me feel good, it's been much easier for my weight to stay in one place. why? i don't feel deprived and then binge. i allow "fun foods" when i want them but mostly eat foods that me feel great and energized

[@erinrachelcat]

Carb counting is the only way for me to lose weight in my 40s now. Calorie counting feels onerous but counting carbs and keeping them below 100 is easy.

[@pamelacox540]

As a menopausal woman I started having weight issues. I had to really examine my diet as I started wandering into pre-diabetes territory. I mostly use “calorie counting” to give me better serving sizes as I concentrate on getting adequate protein and calcium (I’m newly osteopenic also- glories of getting older!)

[@i.shuuya3231]

Calorie counting is an imperfect tool. It's inexact and not as "sciency" as we'd like it to be. However, even if it's 40% inaccurate (I made up that number) you can expect it to be CONSISTENTLY inaccurate and with time you'd be able to pick up patterns and turn it into a really useful tool. I've never used it as a tool to lose weight but it's a part of my every day life as an athlete to count macros. I'd say it does wonders for those who stick to it but also aren't obsessive.

[@bluemaple3387]

I also have pcos and calorie count. I know the cravings for sweets. Last year I started to regulate my hormones with spironolactone and inositol with pretty intense results. I can see someone with a normal metabolism watching my calorie limits for the past decade and think I was starving myself. I had a scale just for food in the kitchen and meal prepped a lot. I had to have those limits before to keep my weight in a healthy range because the more weight the worse pcos tends to get. However, after the meds I was able to break down fat at a much higher rate than before and I had to relearn how to eat in order to not lose weight too fast. Like 5lb in a week, when before it took me almost a year to lose that same amount. I think its more important to make sure you hit your macros/micros and not get too concerned about the calories themselves. I also was in contact with my dietician and primary doctor for check-ins and blood work for years to make sure I was ok. Calorie counting is a tool not the whole story.

[@anathen]

I appreciate all of your videos! I have learned so much since I found you here on youtube! Thank you for all you do!!

[@sherylmarshall1444]

I take calorie counters with a pinch of salt and adjust depending on whether I lose or gain and combine it with nutrient calculations as that’s most important.

[@kathleenbarney3930]

The being accused of lying about how much you eat. I feel that so much. I've lost 160 pounds but I am still overweight by 10 pounds. CICO is no longer working at all. The scale will not budge. I'm told I'm not allowed to be happy at my current weight because "overweight is unhealthy" and that cutting my body weight in half wasn't enough but no one wants to give any constructive advice beyond "YOU MUST BE LYING OR MISTAKEN ABOUT BEING IN A DEFICIT" like I'm stupid or haven't already lost 160 pounds. I know how to calorie count but it's no longer working and it's gotten to where I feel guilty and ashamed if I eat more than 1100 calories in a day. My dietitian wants me on 1500 which is more reasonable but when the scale stops budging at 1500, 1400, 1300, and 1200 and you get told over and over that you can't be "defying the laws of thermodynamics" you feel like you need to eat less. I've had a gastric bypass and am on a very low dose of wegovy due to blood sugar issues from that and I still feel a need to eat 1200-1500 calories a day which should be fine for a short person who needs to lose 10 pounds. CICO works to a certain extent but I'm so tired of being told it's simple and easy and that it's impossible for it to stop working. What you're saying about how so many calorie counts available to us on foods being inaccurate is probably the first thing I've heard in awhile that didn't make me feel stupid or crazy. That and what you said at the end about needing far less calories to lose more once you've already lost. So many people insist that CICO should work just that same now as it did when I was 160 pounds heavier but it isn't.

[@Ohemaa]

I love your videos but here I am trying to improve my levels and lose weight and I am so confused cos one side says in and out and the other day do as you please. Help a sister out

[@m.gillett7655]

Would LOVE to see a video on eating to gain lean muscle mass while losing body fat! It’s soooo insane to me and I wish I understood the science behind it more. Can this happen without tracking?!