Journaling my food intake.

Hi everyone,

I'd like to have everyones help. I bought a little notebook and want to start journaling my intake. I am going to count calories and protein...should I count anything else?

I am going to limit myself to about 1000-1400 calories. That's my range. Is that alright?

How many grams of protein should I aim for? Sorry I am asking, I did not see a nutritionist with my surgery.

So should I count fat and fiber? lol I'm just wanting to make sure I start this habit the right way.

Use an online tracker, much easier. I like to plan my meals out a day or so ahead. In the beginning I shot for 20g protein per meal. Nowadays I do 30g+

I am more likely to journal on paper than on the computer.

So how much is that daily like 60-90?

60-90 sounds like a good range. I eat my weight in protein but it's not necessary. I say no lower than 60g per day.

My doctor says at least 70 grams of protein a day. I have heard some people say they do best on around 100 grams a day. But I have also heard that the body can only handle 30 grams at a time.

Good for you if you can do it on paper.  I'd never do it, but that's me.  :)

Even if you don't want to use an online site to journal, I'd suggest going to one or more of them to let them figure your caloric intake needs.   fitday.com, livestrong.com/thedailyplate, fatsecret.com are all good options.  I would not drop below 1000/day on a routine basis because it can get tricky to get all your needed nutrients in with a caloric intake that low.  JMO.

Also if you have a smartphone, fatsecret.com has a free app and thedailyplate.com has a cheap app.

My doc says minimum 60grams protein a day.  I try to eat low fat, but not 0 fat.  I don't count it, I just mainly eat lean meat, cut away large amounts of fat on the edge of steaks, chops etc.  Low fat cottage cheese, fat free yogurt, etc.

I know a lot of people limit carbs and pay attention to the number.  I just don't eat bread, rice, pasta or potatoes or much processed foods.  Vegetable carbs I don't worry about.

I think you're overall on the right track!!  You go girl!!