I gave the free Lose It! app a go recently, and I have to admit—it’s a very handy little tool. It’s easy to set up, works well on the go, and is especially good if you’re trying to be more aware of what you’re eating.
One of my favourite features is the barcode scanner. Just zap the item and—there you go—it pops up with all the nutritional info. I’ve made some surprising discoveries. Like this one: 1 teaspoon of peanut butter has about the same calories as a whole small tin of Sealord’s tuna. That made me stop in my tracks. I love peanut butter, but it got me thinking—what would I rather have? A tiny smidgen of peanutty yummy-ness or a decent serve of tuna with a bit more staying power? Sometimes it’s good to compare.
It’s also brilliant for checking those sneaky drinks that look innocent but pack a punch. That fabulous mocha frappuccino with whipped cream on top! Delicious, I know. But now I think twice and try to enjoy it as a once-in-a-blue-moon treat, not as a regular habit.
The app is great for supermarket shopping too. You can scan things before you even put them in the trolley. This is where it can stop me from getting caught out with snacks that seem healthy but turn out to be full of sugar or hidden extras.
Having said that—I don’t let myself get too caught up in calorie counting. I think it’s best used as a guide. Take from it what you can, learn a little, and then carry on with your day.
I enjoy using the app and do find it really handy, but for some reason, calorie counting didn’t quite give me the results I was after. Maybe I cheated a little here and there… or maybe I underestimated portions (especially when the app gave me two options and I picked the one with fewer calories 😄). I’ve always been a bit of a workaround person—reminds me of my Weight Watchers days, trying to stretch out my points to get the most food! These days, I’ve decided to keep an open mind and just use the app when it’s helpful, without letting it take over completely.
For me, it’s rather a gentle check-in than a strict rule. I use it to stay aware, find good swaps, and keep some balance. And when it’s time for something special, I enjoy it—without guilt… peanut butter, yum! That’s what keeps me going.
If you’re curious, give the app a try and see what works for you. Even one or two features—like scanning at the supermarket or checking your daily habits—might give you a fresh perspective or help you make a few small, helpful changes. And it’s free which is always good.
Until next time—eat well, stay curious, and enjoy food! — ♡ Janet
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