ED Weight Restoration, Moving into Maintenence

matt6050
matt6050 Posts: 56 Member
in Goal: Gaining Weight and Body Building
Hey All,

I'm a 20 year old male (just turned 20 yesterday :)), 5'8" and restoring weight. I'm about 120 lbs right now, and my doctor is recommending that I keep gaining until I hit AT LEAST 130. I've been looking into several different calculators for caloric needs with regard to gaining/maintaining weight, but they all have an activity component. Here's the rub: I don't really know how to categorize my exercise level because as part of my disorder I struggle with compulsive exercise, so I would say that my activity level is very low, but the only reference points I have are from when I was running for an hour+rock climbing for 2 hours a day, 6 days a week. I am now running about 1-2 times per week for about 40 minutes at a moderate pace, and climbing 4-5 days a week for 2 hours a session. What category of activity is that considered? I realize that it's different for everyone, but I'm just looking for a general idea of what I should be eating for that activity level to gain weight via lean muscle, and then maintain that.
Thanks!!

Replies

  • RunMyOregonBunsOff
    RunMyOregonBunsOff Posts: 862 Member
    I would say you are active and then add in that you exercise about 9 hours a week. I have a hunch that you don't sit around all day the rest of the time either...even if it is just moving your legs when sitting or fidgeting a lot. I could be totally wrong but even if I am I would stick with active when you input your info.
  • Mpol2
    Mpol2 Posts: 442 Member
    http://www.health-calc.com/diet/energy-expenditure-advanced
    :flowerforyou:
    Try this one....it really helps you break out more precisely. Good luck on your return to a healthier weight and lifestyle.
  • matt6050
    matt6050 Posts: 56 Member
    Wow, very comprehensive! Thanks!
  • geekyjock76
    geekyjock76 Posts: 2,720 Member
    TDEE calculators do not apply to persons recovering from EDs as those values won't provide enough calories to restore weight and repair the physiological damage done. Do not underestimate how many calories are needed for recovery to be successful.

    You should really read this link and even many articles from the site in general:

    http://www.youreatopia.com/blog/2011/9/14/i-need-how-many-calories.html
  • matt6050
    matt6050 Posts: 56 Member
    geekyjock76: Great article. You were totally right; I spent over an hour browsing the site and reading up. The points they made were well presented and easy to understand. Thanks so much for the link!

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