Net or gross calories

xcaranicolex

I'm sorry if this has been asked before but when people are talking about minimum calories is that referring to net or gross calories? I.e if you should be averaging 1400/1500 that's before exercise or after? Thanks guys for any help!

StaciMarie1974

It really depends on what you think is best for you. MFP uses the theory that not all people exercise, so the calorie intake goal is before exercise. If you exercise, you earn extra calories and can choose to eat them back. Ultimately its up to you. A few things to consider (based on my opinion):

• How aggressive is your weight loss goal? If 2 pounds MFP already has a big deficit built in; you probably should eat some exercise calories
• How accurate is your food log? If you use measuring cups for solids, estimate portions, etc. then you're probably eating more than you think so intentionally eating your exercise calories may wipe out your deficit
• How do you feel? Monitor your energy level and choose to eat more when you feel you need it.

terbusha

I always go by gross calories. What I do and what I recommend to people is to eat at a calorie level that allows you to make good progress towards your goal. If you are trying to lose weight, eat so you drop 1-2 lbs/week. This assumes an average calorie burn from you getting in all of your workouts. This will be different for everyone, so you'll have to do some trial and error to figure it out. I'd start ~1600 cal/day. Hit this goal, along with your macros and getting in your workouts, for 2 weeks. If you lose 1-2 lbs/week, you're good to go. If you lose too much, increase your intake and repeat. If you don't lose enough, reduce your intake a bit and repeat. After a few cycles, you'll figure out what works for you in your situation.

aft85

i go by net calories because i'm aiming for 1200 calories a day, but i'm advised not to make the 40 minute walks to and from my college with that, so my 3 college days have more calories, depending on whether i walk both there and back.

malibu927

If you're following MFP's goals, net. If you're following TDEE, then gross.

harrybananas

I count calories without exercise and this is what I recommend to others who have tried to lose weight. Every body is different and exercise affects every body differently. I don't believe exercise and training is a means to allow eating more or , conversely, eating more as a reward for exercising.

Hit your calories without counting exercise and you'll reach your fitness goals without the possible "why am I not seeing x and y results" sentiment later.

punkrockgoth

I have nothing to add. This question has been answered quite well and reflects anything I would have said. Good job forum peeps!