[edanm]

> Counting calories presumably works (when it does) because it’s combined with more nutritious, regular meals, better awareness, etc.

This is what critics don't get. Calorie counting is what makes people have better awareness, and what makes people aware of what meal is more nutritious.

When you're in the weeds of this stuff it's hard to remember, but many people honestly don't know what are caloric equivalents of different foods, and that's pretty important information if you're trying to eat better.