How I Learned to Measure Olive Oil and Accidentally Got My Life Together
There was a time — not that long ago — when I poured olive oil like I was Ina Garten and calories simply didn’t apply to me.
A generous glug in the pan.
Another for the salad.
Maybe a little extra “for health.”
Because olive oil is healthy… right?
Technically yes.
But also — plot twist — one tablespoon is 130 calories.
One. Tiny. Tablespoon.
Which means my “little drizzle” was roughly the caloric equivalent of a small bakery item.
Love that for me.
And that, friends, is how my macro journey began.
Wait… what even are macros?
For the uninitiated (aka the old me who thought “macro” was either a camera setting or something accountants say), macros are short for macronutrients — carbs, protein, and fat.
Macros are simply your macronutrients:
- Protein
- Carbs
- Fat
Instead of starving yourself or cutting out entire food groups (RIP 2005 diet culture), you balance these three while eating in a small calorie deficit.
So you’re still eating real food.
Still enjoying meals.
Still living your life.
Just… with intention.
It’s less “diet” and more “adulting with math.”
Which feels wildly unfair but also very effective.
And you eat them within a calorie deficit, meaning you consume slightly fewer calories than your body uses.
You can still eat real food… you just can’t pretend tortilla chips don’t count because they’re “thin.”
Rude.
Dining out: a humbling experience
Nothing builds character quite like going to a restaurant while tracking macros.
Everyone else:
“Apps for the table! Extra queso! Margaritas!”
Me:
“Do we know if this chicken was sautéed or grilled? And approximately how much oil was used?”
I used to go out carefree.
Now I go out like a detective. Even sneaking photos of my meals to track later.
I’m scanning menus like:
- Where’s the protein?
- Where are the sneaky fats?
- Why is this salad somehow 900 calories??
The waiter thinks I have allergies.
No sir.
I just finally read the nutrition label once and can’t unsee it.
The Olive Oil Betrayal (continued)
Let’s circle back because I’m still emotionally processing this.
Olive oil is amazing.
Heart healthy. Anti-inflammatory. Mediterranean goddess energy.
But calorie-dense. Yeesh.
So now instead of free-pouring like I’m on a cooking show, I measure it like it’s liquid gold.
And honestly?
It still tastes just as good.
Turns out moderation works better than vibes.
Growth.
The part nobody told me…
Here’s what surprised me most:
I’m not starving.
Because when you prioritize protein and balance your meals, you’re actually… full?
Like satisfied full.
Not “I ate three rice cakes and now I’m sad” full.
I’m eating:
- eggs
- rice
- chicken
- salads with actual toppings
- the occasional treat – just had a girl scout cookie!
I just plan ahead.
And something about that planning feels really good.
Steady. Calm. Grown-up. Would you just look at me?
Like folding your laundry the same day you wash it.
Who is she?
The Surprising Side Effect: Discipline spills over
Here’s where it gets deeper than just food.
When I started being intentional about what went into my body… everything else followed.
I plan my day better.
I move my body more consistently.
I sleep better.
I waste less time scrolling.
And even my faith feels more grounded. When I’m disciplined with my food, I’m also:
- more consistent with workouts
- more organized with my day
- more mindful with my time
- more intentional in my walk with the Lord
It’s funny how taking care of your body sharpens everything else.
There’s something beautiful about caring for the body God gave you — not obsessively, not perfectly — just thoughtfully.
Like saying,
“Thank you for this body. I want to steward it well.”
It feels less like restriction and more like gratitude.
It’s really just small choices
Macros aren’t magic. They’re awareness.
They’re asking:
- Is this worth it?
- Will this fuel me?
- How do I want to feel later?
Sometimes the answer is grilled chicken and veggies.
Sometimes the answer is chips and queso with friends.
Both are allowed.
Because this isn’t punishment — it’s balance.
And honestly? That feels like freedom.
Final thoughts from your local berry weigher
Do I still laugh at myself while weighing 50 grams of strawberries?
Yes.
Do I sometimes miss my carefree “olive oil waterfall” days?
Also yes.
But I feel stronger. Clearer. More disciplined. More present.
And weirdly… more joyful.
Like a little Sursee for myself each day – a small, intentional choice that adds up to something good.
Turns out taking care of your body isn’t about shrinking yourself.
It’s about showing up better for your life.
For your family.
For your work.
For your walk with the Lord.
And maybe… just maybe… learning that one tablespoon of olive oil is plenty.
Even if your heart wants three.
Full Disclosure: I have an awesome Macro coach that has been keeping me accountable and guiding me through this process. She is amazing – message me if you want her contact!
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