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Book part
Publication date: 24 September 2018

Gabija Didžiokaitė, Paula Saukko and Christian Greiffenhagen

The existing literature on fatness has critically discussed meanings and morals associated with body weight and explored people’s experiences of weight loss attempts. However…

Abstract

The existing literature on fatness has critically discussed meanings and morals associated with body weight and explored people’s experiences of weight loss attempts. However, little attention has been paid to the practices of dieting – how it is ‘done’. Based on an interview study involving 31 participants, who shared their self-tracking experience of using the MyFitnessPal calorie counting app, we focus on the practices of ‘doing’ calories. First, we discuss the practices of temporality of logging food, showing that the use of MyFitnessPal not only has to be fitted into daily routines but can also transform them. Then, we look at the practices of precision or users’ various ways of turning the ‘messiness’ of food into precise numbers. Lastly, we explore users’ practices of adjustments – their attitudes to adherence to their daily calorie goal and ways of dealing with going above it. Based on our findings we suggest calorie counting is not a straightforward data collection, but one that involves constant practical strategies and negotiations, and can both influence and be influenced by other everyday practices.

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Book part
Publication date: 1 January 2000

Abstract

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Studies in Symbolic Interaction
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-0-76230-639-8

Content available
Book part
Publication date: 24 September 2018

Abstract

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Metric Culture
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78743-289-5

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