What to eat to reach minimum daily calories.

chikady90
chikady90 Posts: 3 Member
edited November 2024 in Health and Weight Loss
So, I'm overweight with severe uncontrolled Hashimotos. I just got with a new doc that believes I have some severe sleep apnea contributing to the mess I am. For years, no matter how much or how little I eat, I've maintained my weight (even during pregnancy, until the last 8 weeks I added on 20 lbs, but lost it less than a week after birth).

My doc wants me to cut back on carbs (namely bread and pasta and of course sugar).

My problem is I don't eat enough. I'm just never hungry. Yesterday I had less than 800 calories with my new diet, and I even had some chocolate milk made with carnation instant breakfast packs.

So, what (or how) do you eat enough in a day when eating healthy??

Replies

  • Ready2Rock206
    Ready2Rock206 Posts: 9,487 Member
    Well I don't want to gain but things like full-fat dairy, avocados, nuts, nut butters, oils, all bring higher calories without high volume. Skip all things "diet" and go with the full fat/calorie version.
  • janejellyroll
    janejellyroll Posts: 25,763 Member
    If you can't meet your calorie goals when eating "healthy," it's usually a sign that you're restricting too much.

    I'm not sure what dietary guidelines you may be following for health and it looks like you are reducing carbohydrates, so consider adding some more fat to your diet. It's calorie-dense and can add calories pretty quickly. Some of my favorite fats are nuts, coconut, avocado, and full fat salad dressings.
  • chikady90
    chikady90 Posts: 3 Member
    To add, I don't consume artificial sweeteners (causes migraines). I do eat coconut, coconut oil, almonds, almond butter, walnuts. No peanuts or peanut butter. I eat eggs, and whole grain bread or seed bread. Only whole milk, half and half, or heavy cream and real unsalted butter and whole cheeses. I also like eating water dense fruits and veggies (kiwi, watermelon, oranges, cucumbers). I'm not a huge fan of eating meats and I lean more toward being vegetarian (although I've been forcing meat into my diet lately for some balance). Also eat a lot of beans and legumes. I cannot stand avocado (although I have tried to love it).

    My unhealthy kicks are mostly sweets (cookies, pancakes, cakes, brownies). And occasionally I eat ramen if I'm sick.

    I'm just never hungry. Or I feel sick/loose appetite after eating a small amount and stop. I never deprive myself of anything (excepts the sweets here lately, per the dr).
  • diannethegeek
    diannethegeek Posts: 14,776 Member
    Not being able to see your diary or knowing more about your eating habits makes this a bit hard to answer. Generally speaking, you'd want to check out the lack of appetite with a doctor to see if there's an underlying cause and then add in more meals, snacks, and calorie dense foods.

    You might find some ideas here: http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/10142490/a-list-of-calorie-dense-foods/p1
  • Polo265
    Polo265 Posts: 287 Member
    How about peanut butter?
  • Jancandoit7
    Jancandoit7 Posts: 356 Member
    chikady90- I too have Hashimotos (now controlled with medication), severe sleep apnea, and had other hormonal imbalances as well. These things make one feel exhausted and just generally unwell. I found it impossible to lose weight until I got these issues under control- you really need to have a sleep study done. Untreated sleep Apnea has all kinds of negative effects on one's health and well being as does the thyroid issue. Sounds like you're eating healthy foods but 800 calories is not going to help you feel better. Maybe add a good plant based protein shake? I like the "Organic Orgain plant proteins vanilla" with yogurt and berries- I wish you the best with resolving your health issues- takes time I know- but sooooo worth it! Hope your new doc is a good one.
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