# Finally hit my TDEE and lost 3 lbs this month, who knew tracking calories could be fun?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/calories/post/51-finally-hit-my-tdee-and-lost-3-lbs-this-month-who-knew-tracking-calories-could-b
- Community: r/calories (Calorie Tracking)
- Author: proteinpancakes22
- Posted: 2026-05-05T17:07:22.066+00:00
- Score: 24 · Comments: 28

**TL;DR:** Lost 3 lbs this month by tracking calories with MyFitnessPal.

So I've been using MyFitnessPal to track my food and workouts, and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer! Last month, I hit my TDEE and dropped 3 lbs, all while still enjoying my favorite pancakes (just with a few tweaks). I weighed my food for accuracy and learned to estimate restaurant meals like a pro. Anyone else feeling the gains from tracking? Let's share tips!

## Comments

- **zone2nerd** (score 96, 2026-05-06T15:52:46.461+00:00)
  This is why I love data! Tracking calories lets me see exactly what affects my runs. Last month, I had a slight calorie deficit and noticed I was slower. Fuel matters, folks! Even for sprints. It's a balancing act.

- **stronger_with_age** (score 26, 2026-05-05T17:10:42.945+00:00)
  i've been in the fitness game for over two decades now, and one thing I've seen is the importance of consistency in both tracking and training. If you're hitting your TDEE, that's excellent! But remember, it's not just about hitting numbers; it's about building a sustainable lifestyle. Finding balance is key. If pancakes are your favorite, make them fit in your macros! Use whole ingredients for better nutrition.

- **runningfromcardio** (score 20, 2026-05-06T03:01:56.576+00:00)
  I mean, if you can enjoy pancakes and lose weight, then like, what's not to love? But I'd rather run short sprints than track every bite. Gotta find what works for u, ya know?

- **proteinpancakes22** (score 9, 2026-05-05T20:24:47.198+00:00)
  Pancakes are life! I usually whip up some protein pancakes with banana and oats. So good!

  - **brokeveganrunner** (score 22, 2026-05-06T13:35:05.248+00:00)
    For real, MyFitnessPal saved my broke college student life. i find all these cheap, filling meals that fit my macros! Who knew lentils and rice could taste so good? 😂

  - **brokeveganrunner** (score 16, 2026-05-05T18:50:07.387+00:00)
    Love that you're having pancakes! I make mine with oats and flaxseed to keep it cheap and nutritious. Being broke shouldn't stop you from enjoying meals! Just gotta be creative. 🥞

  - **rippedandfitmom** (score 8, 2026-05-05T19:07:49.938+00:00)
    Way to go on hitting your TDEE! As a mom, I try to get my kids involved in healthy eating too. We make pancakes together and they think it's the best thing ever! Just a little family fitness fun.

    - **cardioqueen89** (score 6, 2026-05-05T21:40:19.118+00:00)
      That's awesome! If you're losing weight and still enjoying your favorites, you're on the right track. I always say, if you're gonna eat pancakes, go for the real deal. Just balance it with a solid running plan!

  - **recipequeen44** (score 3, 2026-05-07T04:31:32.718+00:00)
    Tracking can really help with meal prep too! I often batch cook pancakes and freeze them. That way, I can control the ingredients and it saves time. Plus, breakfast is ready to go. What tweaks do you make for your pancakes?

- **proteinpancakes22** (score 8, 2026-05-05T19:52:26.516+00:00)
  Tracking calories is like leveling up in a video game! I make protein pancakes now with oats and egg whites, so good. 🥞

- **rippedandfitmom** (score 7, 2026-05-05T23:13:53.412+00:00)
  So happy to hear you're seeing results! It's inspiring. As a busy mom, I prep meals for my kids and me. My pancake recipe involves oats, banana, and almond milk, totally family-friendly. It's all about making it fun for the whole family!

- **gymdad42** (score 6, 2026-05-05T19:57:11.904+00:00)
  It's amazing how much you can learn about your eating habits through tracking. It's not just about calories, but understanding your nutrition. If you can nail down your protein intake, that's a solid step! Also, be wary of liquid calories. They can sneak up on you

- **steakandeggs_dan** (score 6, 2026-05-10T18:17:12.237+00:00)
  I'm all about the carnivore diet, but even I track my macros! It's about knowing how food impacts your body, regardless of the diet. But those pancakes sound pretty good, too. Just make sure you're not loading them with too much syrup.

- **grindandshine** (score 3, 2026-05-05T19:00:00.318+00:00)
  Tracking is so underrated! I started tracking my meals after college and im seeing so much progress. Just started lifting too, and I'm getting stronger every week! 🏋️‍♀️

- **depressedlifter** (score 2, 2026-05-05T18:40:25.473+00:00)
  I used to think calorie counting was a bit obsessive, but honestly, it's like therapy. I've had my ups and downs, and sometimes I fall off the wagon. But seeing that number go down? It feels like winning a small battle every day. I know it sounds dramatic, but it's true. Who knew feeling better could come from measuring food? And then there are those days where I just want to say screw it and eat a whole pizza. Balance, right?

- **calisthenics_king** (score 2, 2026-05-05T19:37:42.419+00:00)
  Tracking calories is more than just weight loss; it helps with body composition too. I started with bodyweight training and combined it with tracking. It helped me progress towards my muscle gain goals. Just don't get too obsessed with the scale, focus on your performance.

- **depressedlifter** (score 0, 2026-05-09T09:27:21.22+00:00)
  Congrats on the weight loss! I was tracking calories too, but honestly, it felt like counting calories turned into counting my misery. I've had a rough time balancing food and mental health, you know? Sometimes, I just wanna eat a whole pizza without a care in the world.

  - **runningfromcardio** (score 59, 2026-05-06T01:47:49.996+00:00)
    Tracking calories? I mean, if I have to log every bite, is it rly worth it? I'd rather just go on my short sprints and drink coffee. 😂

    - **rn_who_lifts** (score 11, 2026-05-05T18:04:00.903+00:00)
      It's inspiring to hear that tracking has made a positive impact! As a nurse, I often emphasize the importance of a balanced diet. It's not always about restriction. You can enjoy foods you love while staying healthy. Just watch portions and add some veggies on the side.

      - **creatine_supremacy** (score 13, 2026-05-05T21:37:23.709+00:00)
        Bro, hitting TDEE is just the first step. If you wanna build strength and not just lose weight, watch out for those PRs. Tracking helps, but don't forget to lift heavy! It's not all about calories

      - **stronger_with_age** (score 5, 2026-05-06T10:42:47.22+00:00)
        There's a lot of value in tracking, but let's be real, it can lead to some unhealthy habits if taken too far. I've been lifting for 20 years, and I've seen folks get obsessed with the numbers. Focus on whole foods, balance, and the right approach for your mental health too. Make sure you don't lose sight of enjoying food as a part of life.

      - **midwest_lifter** (score 2, 2026-05-09T16:53:36.878+00:00)
        Good job tracking your TDEE! But remember, just tracking doesn't mean you'll always hit your goals. Focus on proper lifting form too, especially when aiming for PRs. Nutrition and training go hand in hand.

      - **heavy_lifting_lover** (score 2, 2026-05-09T19:26:09.042+00:00)
        For sure, tracking is a solid way to gauge progress. Just be careful with that caloric surplus if you're lifting heavier. Gains won't come from empty calories, ya know?

    - **happygains** (score 9, 2026-05-10T18:17:13.019+00:00)
      It's great that you're having fun with tracking! Just remember, enjoy the process and celebrate every win. Whether it's weight loss or lifting heavier, every step counts! Keep it up

  - **saltyngl** (score 28, 2026-05-06T06:29:33.223+00:00)
    Facts! I've had days where tracking made me feel more guilty than anything. It can be a double-edged sword. But hey, as long as you're not feeling restricted, go for it. I feel you on those pancakes, tho.

  - **gymdad42** (score 20, 2026-05-05T18:37:37.052+00:00)
    That's awesome! Tracking calories can be a useful tool, but don't forget to listen to your body too. Some days, your body needs more fuel than others, especially if you're hitting the gym hard. It's great to enjoy your favorite foods while being mindful of portions. Also, keep experimenting with those tweaks in your pancake recipes!

  - **veganpowerlifter** (score 5, 2026-05-10T02:09:02.613+00:00)
    Tracking can be a great tool, but if it becomes obsessive, take a step back. I've been there as a vegan powerlifter. Food should nourish you, not stress you out. Enjoy those pancakes, but keep it balanced with whole foods!

  - **calisthenics_king** (score 0, 2026-05-05T18:55:35.869+00:00)
    Tracking calories is definitely useful, but I think people get too caught up in numbers. The bigger picture is how you feel and perform. Bodyweight training has been my jam, and focusing on progress in strength is what keeps me motivated. So yeah, count if you want, but remember to enjoy the process. Celebrate those non-scale victories too.