Please help me to know I'm not crazy.

daniellemm1

I am 5 feet 1 inch and weigh 224lbs and 36 years old. MFP has me at 1200 calories which has been working as I have lost 36lbs on it. I feel like maybe it is time to look into the TDEE-20% method as my weight loss has slowed/stalled. I have a desk job but I exercise (moderately) 6 times per week for about an hour each time. Does 1600 sound like the right amount of calorie intake? I'm freaking out a little about upping my calories 400 and dont want to end up gaining weight. What do you guys think?

ahmadfahmy

your deficit seems huge at 1200 calories..if your weight loss has stalled at this much of a deficit your body may be retaining water. you should take 1or 2 days off and refeed (maintenance calories or a little higher: high protein, high carb, minimal fat) and you should notice your body releasing the stored water. After that increase your calories to at least 1300-1400 and see how you feel. if you start to stall again (assumig you dont use cheat meals) do a refeed and slowly increase calories. I lift 3x a week and im 144 and i cant imagine eating 1200 even on rest days and being able to survive.

TavistockToad

1600 sounds fine, that's still not a massive amount!

diannethegeek

1600 seems right to me. Try increasing your calories slowly, about 100 extra calories a week, if you're worried about it. That will give your body time to adjust to the new plan.

daniellemm1

Thanks everyone