local
Why losing weight isn’t just about counting calories — and what to do about it
By Associated Press at Odessa American (oaoa.com)
· July 7, 2026
· 5 min read
By J.M. HIRSCH
The Associated Press
BOSTON When it comes to losing weight, it turns out the simple math of counting calories doesn’t always add up.
Fad diets come and go, but the underlying message almost always follows a simple equation. If you consume fewer calories than you burn, the weight w...
Key takeaway HIRSCH The Associated Press BOSTON When it comes to losing weight, it turns out the simple math of counting calories doesn’t always add up.
Why this matters in The Odessa
For Odessa residents looking to manage their weight, the complexities of calorie counting can be particularly relevant given the city's high rates of obesity. The fact that diet quality is just as important as quantity is a crucial consideration for locals, who often have to balance busy lifestyles with healthy eating habits. The Permian Basin's thriving oil and gas industry can lead to long working hours and limited time for meal preparation, making it tempting to rely on convenience foods that may be high in calories but low in nutritional value. As locals navigate the challenges of weight loss, they would do well to focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods rather than simply counting calories, and to be aware of the potential inaccuracies in nutrition labeling that can mislead even the most diligent dieters. By prioritizing diet quality and being mindful of these complexities, Odessa residents can set themselves up for greater success in their weight loss journeys.
About this story
Original reporting by Odessa American (oaoa.com) . The Odessa surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Odessa American (oaoa.com) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 7, 2026 ·
Source: Odessa American (oaoa.com) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? By J.M. HIRSCH
The Associated Press
BOSTON When it comes to losing weight, it turns out the simple math of counting calories doesn’t always add up.
Fad diets come and go, but the underlying message almost always follows a simple equation. If you consume fewer calories than you burn, the weight w...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 7, 2026 by Odessa American (oaoa.com) and curated for The Odessa readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Associated Press at Odessa American (oaoa.com). To learn more about how The Odessa selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Odessa, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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