How long have you been riding? You certainly can do this to your bike with no harm if you like, but, this is usually a question asked by people who don't ride much. Later on they get used to the gears.
Everyone is different, riding conditions vary too, but the 1x7 might work for you, there's no way to be 100% sure by reading a description on a forum. Your description of your riding conditions is very good, better than most, but, no one can be sure exactly what is right for you without trying it. What size is your middle ring now? I'm guessing that's guiding you to your idea for a 44t front. Sounds about right.