I used to be able to lose weight just by counting carbs. Since I turned 50 counting carbs alone no longer works for me, I am sure at least in part because I have always been an overeater/binge eater...I just binged on low carb foods. Now I am having some suchess counting carbs and calories on my fitness pal. Although I am counting calories, if a day goes high on calories I do not worry about it, as long as carbs stay low. I also try to get at least 15,000 steps per day.