Net calories for obese people??

AussieGem

I think I may finally understand the whole total calories and net calories.... so much to get your head around, especially when you get conflicting advice. In saying this I do have a problem, I am currently 271lbs, BMR = 2055, Maintenence =2570 (sedentary).

I have just started counting calories and am having trouble eating over 1200 when my calorie intake goal is 1570 (1000 deficit). I have noticed that my eating habits over the past few years (from memory) would be virtually the same. Therefore I want to get things right this time. On average I burn 500-700 exercise calories which I have not been eating.

My question is, is it healthy for me to only eat back enough calories or a little more to ensure that I meet the 1200 net calories, atleast in the initial phase of losing weight (as my BMI is 40.2, and as I understand obese people can handle high deficits in the beginning???) Just out of curiosity,does anyone know why this is?

tbisca1

Everyone's body is different but from my experience since I have started watching my calories for a year now is that I don't eat back my exercise calories and I roughly stay around 1200 calories. I for almost that full year I exercised 4-5 days per week and within the last several months I started doing 6 to 7 days per week. I did take a couple months early this year to let my body rest and watch the calories a little less so I could jump start the weight loss. During that time I never lost nor gained any weight, I maintained it. But once I started going back strong I lost 25lbs in 6 weeks for a total of 82lbs in a year. So you just have to play around with it to see what's best for you and if you see it's not working after a month or so tweak it until you see more results. But eating lean protein, veggies, fruits, fiber and exercise is key. Good Luck!! If you wanna add me on here feel free! we can encourage each other.

TavistockToad

If MFP has set your calories to 1200, then that is what you should be netting to lose weight.

MinnieInMaine

I've heard the same as you, more obese people can handle a higher deficit. So I think you're ok, but just keep in mind that if your weight loss slows or plateus that probably means it's time to hike up the calories. My personal theory is to eat about the same as you plan on doing for the rest of your life so it may actually be helpful for you to start out at this lower calorie range so it won't feel like such a sacrifice when you closer to goal.

I think you also have to go by how your body reacts. I know, for me, exercise (especially something vigorous like running) does make me hungry so I always use my exercise calories. So, just listen to your body. If you're hungry and your energy is low, you probably need to eat more (especially protein) but if you're feeling good and making good food choices, I don't see the harm.