Confused on how many calories to eat?

Minaz95

Hey guys So Im trying to get healthy and loose my belly and tone up a bit.I do Insanity Max 30 and some workouts that include dumbells and strength training (youtube lol ) .MFP says 1200 but some people tell me its too low and can lead you to starvation mode.Im 5'6 and 126 pounds 21 year old female.I know Im a healthy weight range but a calorie deficit is needed to burn fat and replace with muscle.I looked up Insanity Max 30 nutrition guide and they ask you to use containers from Beachbody which I do not have.So any suggestions guys.Sorry for making it too long , once again thanks :-)

cathipa

You need to start a progressive weight training routine. Search out bodybuilding.com. 1200 is the lowest MFP will allow and because you are already at a healthy weight no need to lose. Switch to maintenance calories and start lifting.

TavistockToad

Why are you trying to lose weight when you're only 126lbs?

Ready2Rock206

MFP tells you 1200 PLUS exercise calories. Be sure you're eating at least a portion of the exercise calories. You won't really gain muscle on a calorie deficit though.

animatorswearbras

Unfortunately you can't gain muscle at a deficit and at 1200 calories and 126 pounds you will likely lose muscle no matter how much exercise you incorporate. Starvation mode is a myth. The best you can hope for is retain the muscle you already have by only having a small deficit and eating your exercise calories. If you want to gain muscle you may need a different approach but I don't think you can do it whilst losing. x

lemurcat12

Minaz95 wrote: »

a calorie deficit is needed to burn fat and replace with muscle.

No, it's not. This is recomping and it's done at maintenance calories.

TeaBea

cathipa wrote: »

You need to start a progressive weight training routine. Search out bodybuilding.com. 1200 is the lowest MFP will allow and because you are already at a healthy weight no need to lose. Switch to maintenance calories and start lifting.

This^

Losing weight won't help shift fat to muscle. When we lose weight we lose fat & lean muscle. Eat at maintenance and lift heavy things.