How Many Calories Should You Eat?

"How many calories do you eat?" I get this question all the time... in fact I got it this morning after teaching one of my fitness classes. Well... I eat a lot of calories... too many to count because I'm extremely active and am not trying to lose fat. The answer to the calorie question is... well, there isn't one answer... it varies greatly from person to person. However, the number one problem I find with women and men who can't lose weight is that they simply aren't eating enough calories! Yes... the goal is to eat as many calories as possible and still lose weight. And those calories should be from nutrient dense foods, not drinks and junk, so you get the most nutrients per calorie.

Not eating enough calories causes many metabolic changes. Sure, you might lose weight for a few weeks but eventually your body will catch on and conserve energy to survive. In a prolonged calorie restriction many things happen...

1. A decrease in muscle mass because you aren't feeding your body enough calories to maintain lean muscle. Less muscle mass = slower metabolism.







2. Your thyroid slows down. Your thyroid is responsible for metabolizing macro nutrients.

3. A decrease in testosterone and leptin which are hormones needed to maintain muscle and regulate energy and hunger.
 

4. You will have a decrease in energy which means you will not be able to exercise and have a lack of motivation for everyday life.

How Many Calories Should You Be Eating?

You want to start high and come down in calories as needed. There are many formulas I use in my nutrition planning to figure this number out for specific individuals. This number is rarely the same for two different people.
Wight loss is a patience game. It's not safe or sustainable to lose weight quickly. A quick weight loss often equals losing muscle and not fat. SO...Eat to fuel your body and lose weight the right way.

If you're interested in a personalized nutrition plan, visit our website at http://twinspirationfitness.webs.com/