Should I log mundane daily activities as exercise? Topic

NathanfrigginSmith 03/03/21
I drive two hours a day and work on wind turbines and that immediately gets me a few hundred extra calories to eat. Is this something I should actually log it am I defeating the purpose? I exercise regularly so it’s not like I’m doing nothing, but I just ate a two thousand calorie meal, I can’t help but feel guilty and wonder?

Dietician 03/03/21
Hi U1189419925, I would probably not log activities of daily living and just consider it a bonus for burning calories for weight loss. I am glad to hear you are exercising regularly. Instead of feeling guilty, can you look at your meal and think of ways you can cut the calories next time? Things like cutting all the portions in half or increasing non-starchy veggies and decreasing heavier foods, maybe decrease any added fats or choose baked or grilled instead of fried foods? Would love it if you shared what you came up with. Use it as a learning experience to develop strategies in your weight loss journey. Hope this helps! Brenda (MyNetDiary Dietitian)

NathanfrigginSmith 03/03/21
Hi Brenda, I’d rather run further or work harder than cut food. I’m a fattie at heart. But I can not count daily activities

Brit 03/04/21
Hi! I’m not a dietitian but baked or grilled foods plus rice may help. Rice fills you up without sitting on your stomach super heavy like pasta or potatoes would. Brenda, please correct me if I’m wrong. :) I’m just stating what’s worked for me. Good luck Nathan!!

Dietician 03/04/21
Hi Brit, it sounds like you find rice filling. Don't forget the non-starchy veggies too:)

Nathan, correct, I wouldn't count activities of daily living for exercise. It might just sabotage your efforts to lose weight. The nice thing about tracking is that you can monitor your progress and determine what works for you.

Keep on tracking! Brenda (MyNetDiary Dietitian)

HappytoBMe 06/30/21
Have you used an online calculator to determine how many calories your body needs to maintain weight and loose weight? My son did this for my husband and I and it has really helped! My husband can eat 2050 calories a day to loose weight. 2000 calories might be ok for you.

Should I log mundane daily activities as exercise?