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Confused about recommended calorie intake

Venus75
Venus75 Posts: 2
edited November 2024 in Health and Weight Loss
Ok, maybe it's simpler than I'm making it. My daily caloric intake is supposed to be 1,200 calories. I started logging my food, was told I had 400 some odd calories left and then logged my workout.

Now it's telling me that I can have like 976 calories more. Do I get to eat my workout calories? If so, then that is fantastic! I'm just confused as to if I should be eating only 1200 regardless, or 1200 on a nonactive day and 1200+ my workout calories on an active day.

Thanks!

Replies

  • Twylyght
    Twylyght Posts: 224 Member
    You should definitely eat your exercise calories! But also don't force yourself to eat, or eat unhealthy food just to reach it. MFP sets you at a deficit without exercise so you can always eat what you burn and still lose weight. If you don't eat your exercise calories you could hit a plateau after awhile. Good luck!!
  • KelliHarrison
    KelliHarrison Posts: 9
    Yes you definitely get to eat your workout calories - just make sure they are smart calories and not extra sugars or carbs because that'll defeat the benefit of your workout.

    Also - drink lots and lots of water!
  • susannamarie
    susannamarie Posts: 2,148 Member
    1200+workout, but some people have reported that MFP over-reports burns. Also if there was any downtime, make sure to account for that. For example, in a 2 hour martial arts class I usually record 30-60minutes depending on the percent of class spent working and the intensity spent working (I can't wear a HRM during class), and I try to round down.
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