Thank you for your reply! :) as with anything, moderation can be an effective strategy. Like you, I can get obsessed with the numbers, but I've found that over time it evolved into guidelines rather than absolutes. Everyone can find a strategy that works for them if they're willing to put in a little effort. I have no problem eating/treating myself to the occasional cheat meals because I know the vast majority of my diet is healthy. The bonus is that I don't fee guilty or worry about sub-optimal food choices because they make up such a small fraction of my total energy intake. maybe I should do a post on my typical daily food in addition to my workouts... :)