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After meeting goal weight, do I start eating 500 extra cals

kim_mc
kim_mc Posts: 321 Member
edited September 2024 in Health and Weight Loss
Hey everyone-
I am 7 lbs away fom my goal weight. After that I would like to keep working out to tone up but I would think I could increase my calorie goal to maintain current weight.

I just feel like if I start eating 500 extra caolries/day I am going to gain weight back!

Is this something I should do gradually or can I really eat that much food and not put the weight back on??

Can someone please help me?? I have worked too hard to gain any back! :wink:

Replies

  • foxxybrown
    foxxybrown Posts: 838 Member
    Some suggest you should gradually increase. Like an extra 100 calories a day the first week, etc.
  • erickirb
    erickirb Posts: 12,294 Member
    Start now and change to 0.5lbs/week. Then once you get to your goal weight add 100 for 3-4 weeks, the add another 100 for 3-4 weeks then the final 50 cals.
  • NightOwl1
    NightOwl1 Posts: 881 Member
    I would suggest after you get a few pounds closer to cut your weight loss to half pound a week, or a 250 deficit a day. Then when you hit your goal, you'll only be adding another 250.
  • ladyhawk00
    ladyhawk00 Posts: 2,457 Member
    Yep, like Foxxy said, it's generally best to transition slowly. Add 100 cals every week or two weeks, and see how you do at that level. This way, you'll find your "true" maintenance level without jumping around a bunch. Kind of like easing off the gas as you come to a stop sign, rather than slamming on the brakes.

    Great job on your progress!
  • khrys1
    khrys1 Posts: 444 Member
    Whenever you do get to your goal weight, maybe take it slow, like 100-300 extra calories a day, then after a few weeks, be sure to change your goal on MFP to reflect that you don't want to lose any weight each week- it should give you a guideline of how many calories to eat. Good luck, and congratulations!
  • cheangela
    cheangela Posts: 173
    I'm a huge fan of eating to satiate. If you're hungry all the time, add some more vegetables or lean protein sources. If your body isn't really asking for it, don't bother. I think the reason I gained so much weight (after hitting my goal weight in 2005, keeping it off until last July) was because I stopped listening to my body. Find your happy foods, be consistent, and don't deviate from your plan. Sweating is for the gym, not your diet.
  • x3mommy
    x3mommy Posts: 73 Member
    I like that you asked this question. You've done amazing if you are that close and I like the others' ideas of how to manage from here! best of luck to you!
  • irishgal44
    irishgal44 Posts: 1,141 Member
    I just wanted to say "congrats" on almost being there and planning on how you will maintain before you get there!! Everyone had great advise!
  • kim_mc
    kim_mc Posts: 321 Member
    Thanks everyone for all the great advice and support. It is much appreciated!!
This discussion has been closed.

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