How do I figure out how many calories I should be taking in each day to lose weight?

MrsTC Posted: Feb 27, 2005 12:49 PM

How do I figure out how many calories I should be taking in each day to lose weight?

TIA

Snowboardgirl Posted: Feb 27, 2005 01:27 PM

Re: How do I figure out how many calories I should be taking in each day to lose weight?

subtract 500 from what you normally taking in.

coxmandi Posted: Feb 27, 2005 11:02 PM

Re: How do I figure out how many calories I should be taking in each day to lose weight?

Posted by Snowboardgirl

subtract 500 from what you normally taking in.

That isn't necessarily true. You have to eat enough calories for your body to begin to burn fat. Example, if you normally eat 1500 calories, it is unsafe to eat 1000 calories a day. For most people (it varies based on metabolism, amount of exercise done, etc) the minimum is 1500 per day.

There are several online calculators that can tell you roughly how many calories you burn working out and in daily activities. When in doubt see a nutritionist. That way you can know exactly what is healthy and will work best for your needs.

Anniegrl Posted: Feb 28, 2005 08:19 AM

Re: How do I figure out how many calories I should be taking in each day to lose weight?

I would use this rule of thumb:

If you're inactive, multiply your weight by 13. That number is the number of calories your body needs to maintain your current weight. To lose weight, do what Snowboardgirl said and subtract 500.

If you're moderately active, multiply your weight by 14 and then subtract 500 to lose weight.

If you're active, multiply by 15 and then subtract 500.

Try this for about a month and see how it works.