I don't count calories per se, nor am I overly meticulous over nutrient ratios of what I eat, but I do keep a written journal of everything I eat.

This is only for post analysis and to ensure my nutrient ratios appear balanced and my average carb intake isn't fluctuating too wildly along with ensuring my calories are consistent.

I differ with most on this issue. I try to create a 500/day calorie deficit until I reach goal weight, whether via food intake or excercise, ideally a combination of both (initially, I focused on creating a 500 deficit on food intake and another 500 on excercise, which worked fabulously for me--very brisk weight loss during this period). To that end, counting calories help, for me anyway.

Best of luck,

Frederick