I have been practicing Calorie Restriction for years without even realizing I was doing it. I just started with a philosophy years ago that if I was going to put something in my mouth - it was going to have high nutritional value. I was also tired of mood swings from the junk I was consuming. (the straw that "broke the camels back" was a late night social gathering during which I consumed chocolate chip pancakes with chocolate syrup and tons of whipped cream at the Pancake House -- tasted GREAT in the moment - but left me feeling miserable for days).
Nutrient Tracking Improves A Healthy Diet
I discovered this awesome (as you can see everyone is so supportive in this group and very SMART about many topics - not just nutrition) CR society about 6 months ago and have come to realize that I DO need to use the software. I had no clue that despite the fact I eat very healthy - I still was not getting 100% of every RDA - especially calcium! I am also on the road to raising my BMI a bit -- so do be careful - it can get easy for some to go too low.
But as a woman doing this - I am not doing it for looks - as a matter of fact, I am rather thinner than most prefer -- it is about health, feeling good, better energy and longevity if I should be so lucky.
CR Improves Mood And Energy
My friends (every now and then) still ask - "have you lost more weight?" (which is ridiculous as my weight has been the same for the past 10 years or so) -- but they see I have great energy and am almost always in a good mood - so they don't seem to be as concerned. You may get some concern from friends or family - but they will get used to it - especially if they see the positive effecs such as high energy and good health.