As someone with a binge eating disorder (grew up playing hockey on 2 teams in highschool as well as reffing - literally on the ice every night - did not have to worry about my diet until my adulthood), 100% agree. Calorie counting in conjunction with increased cardio and weight lifting is the only thing that has worked for me

Of course, people with a tendency to develop anorexia or purging eating disorders should probably stay away from calorie counting as that can trigger dangerous disordered eating. Very important to know what works for you personally.

This helped me with the cost/benefit of eating (i.e. actually knowing the cost). I can cut down the rice serving and have a beer or some ice cream, rather than cutting those things out arbitrarily because they seem unhealthy.