Calorie question...

musicalboats
musicalboats Posts: 31
in Health and Weight Loss
So, just wondering what other people may suggest....

I used this site to track what I eat, to be aware, not necessarily to diet yet. I noticed that my usual calorie intake is usually right around what this site suggests for the one pound a week loss (1660 calories, without exercise.) My activity level is set at 'active' with a maintaining calorie goal at 2120, I work in a boatyard as a varnisher/painter, frequently moving scaffolding, using machine sanders, and when I wore a pedometer at work I averaged around 7 miles (not including activity outside of work.)

I go to the gym three to four times a week right now, as summer is always busier. I joined the gym in June. I usually do strength training for 45 minutes, including the weight machines and free weights, and then 45 minutes of cardio.

Since June I have lost five pounds. I am focusing more on loss of body fat rather than pounds, and I haven't been measured for body fat in the past month. But I feel like I should have lost more by now? Or is that just because I haven't really changed my eating habits? (And before you ask, I do usually eat decent, not as much leafys as I should, but lots of fruit and other vegetables, cut out pasta for the most part, this is the first time in my life I have had store bought nine grain bread as I haven't had enough time this summer to make it. Oh, but I do love cheese.)

So my questions... To diet to lose more wieght/body fat, should I lower my calorie level slightly (or enter a lower activity level?) Should I try and increase my calorie intake for a little to see what happens (since we always hear about the eat more to lose more thing...) Any suggestions? A friend has also been concerned that I may have a low thyroid issue. Does anyone know anything about that?

Thanks!

Replies

  • ChinUp4Life
    ChinUp4Life Posts: 61
    Depends who you ask in terms of nutrition -- some people will say that calorie deficit is all that matters. I think that is extremely important, although I also believe in nutrient density to promote healthy body composition.

    The other side to that is nutrient timing. Are you eating a solid breakfast every morning? Do you consume protein/carbs immediately after your workout (or within 30 minutes)? How much protein do you consume?

    Thyroid issues may or may not be related to nutrition deficiencies. The conventional wisdom will say that thyroid issues are genetic and need to be treated by drugs. Me going into that topic would open a whole new can of worms...

    But I will just leave you with this last thought. If it took you a long time (years) to gain X weight, then is it unreasonable for it to take a while to lose X weight?
  • musicalboats
    musicalboats Posts: 31
    Thanks for the things to think about... I do always eat breakfast, but it isn't huge or probably as good as it can be - I am not a make an elaborate deal in the morning person... Yogurt, walnuts, and fruit, or some kind of cereal is pretty standard. I usually have a smoothie after the gym - yogurt, fruits, and a little bit of protein powder. I looks like on my reports I average between 50 and 60 grams of protein (key word average, as it sort of alternates between 40 and 80 grams.)

    I am well aware of your last thought. Beyond belief. :) Trust me on that one. I was only asking since all the people I have told what my program is have been surprised I haven't lost a bit more (and I mean a bit, not like forty pounds haha.)

    Thanks for your help! :)

Categories