I also have found counting cals to be necessary. When I first started I was able to lose without, but I think I adjusted to the shock of low carbs and couldnt. I eat no more than 12x my weight (I do average it over the week) and am now in a great losing pattern. But, I am now only 6 lbs from my goal, so its not a surprise that cals count!!!!

I calculated my BMR to determine how many cals I need to eat to maintain (without including exercise). it was about 1950. Then I figured out that since 1 lb=3500 cals/7=500, I eat 1950-500=1450. (i end up eating more as I work out a lot) BMR is dependant on your weight, height, activity level and age. It is pretty accurate. I have the calculation in my journal somewhere if you are interested.