what is a good calorie vs a bad calorie?

bliz425
bliz425 Posts: 4
edited September 30 in Food and Nutrition
I live on a 'Job Corps' campus. They serve not so healthy food 95% of the time. I can eat salad, But my goal each day is 2,780 calories. What is considered 'bad' in order to get those calories? Now, I know i can't just eat Fast Food to get those calories. What do you recommend i mix? There's not much fruit here. Mostly salad, and different foods on different days. Should I just eat a ton of salad or meats? I'm new to this. Please Help! Thanks!

Replies

  • Losing2Live69
    Losing2Live69 Posts: 743 Member
    Did MFP set your calories that high? I know guys are allowed more calories than women, but almost 3000 calories seems like a lot. I don't know if you are trying to lose weight or just maintain though. Anyway...eat lean meats (chicken-without the skin and baked or fish-baked, broiled, or grilled, fruits if you can (bananas are the highest calorie), fresh veggies when possible, nuts, dairy (cottage cheese, yogurt), choose whole grain over white for flour, bread, tortillas, pasta, etc. I avoid most all things "white"...white flour, white sugar, white pasta, white bread, potatoes (I seldom eat them, but when I do in moderation), white rice (I eat a rice medley with brown and wild rices, be careful with heavy condiments like mayo and creamy dressings. Try to avoid soda pop...even if it is diet. Diet is just as bad if not worse than regular because of all the chemicals. Go low sodium if possible. Are there grocery stores near you? I don't know how removed you are from stores. I have seen those campuses in the US but also in other countries. I'm just trying to get a better picture of your surroundings. I hope this helps.
  • FrancesGallagher
    FrancesGallagher Posts: 88 Member
    I'm not sure I understand "good"/"bad" calories. Salad is good because of the vegetables found in the green type salad, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppers, shredded carrots, etc.,. Salads such as potato salad, if made with high fat dressing, wouldn't be a good idea (although any food in reasonable amounts (portion size) is OK. Meat is a high calorie protein and certain meat should be limited. Chicken, turkey and fish are good choices. The grains in bread and cereal is healthy, also with portion control. Limit anything with cheese because of fat and salt, cottage cheese is more acceptable than the solid cheeses. Anything made with lots of sugar or other sweetners should be eaten only now and then as most of these "treat" kind of foods are empty calories with little nutritional value. You need to eat enough so you do not feel hungry. Popcorn is a good treat but watch that whatever kind you might eat isn't high in fat. Good luck with your program and remember to use the food diary, it is the best learning tool. FG
  • bliz425
    bliz425 Posts: 4
    Thanks!
  • DodgeCJ
    DodgeCJ Posts: 30
    Drew boy... what Losing2Live69 said was dead on! I can help you next tiem I see you as well... we can go grocery shopping together and get you banannas, nut and protein bars, that will help you alot. I am so glad you are doing this!!
  • bliz425
    bliz425 Posts: 4
    Are there grocery stores near you? I don't know how removed you are from stores. I have seen those campuses in the US but also in other countries. I'm just trying to get a better picture of your surroundings. I hope this helps.
    Thank you. There are grocery stores around an hour or so away. But I only get paid $45 dollars every other week which is living allowance, it is kind of hard to get groceries. Any suggestions for power bars? Certain brands and such? Not too much fat, but enough protein, and not to expensive. :)
  • Jessicas_Old_Account
    Jessicas_Old_Account Posts: 20
    I know this has nothing to do with your question but I used to go to a Job Corps too! I didn't know you were allowed to keep food in your dorm but then again I was a non-res and each j.c is probably different. But I also agree on what Losing2Live69 said =]. Good luck
  • jamie1888
    jamie1888 Posts: 1,704 Member
    If you are trying to eat healthy & "clean" calories... stick to veggies (steamed, roasted, grilled, etc), lean cuts of meats & protein (chicken, fish, turkey, beans, pork, beef, etc), a couple of servings of fruit, whole grains (whole grain breads/pastas, oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa,etc) , healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, almonds, natural almond butter, natural peanut butter, salmon, etc)

    Avoid anything fried, heavy sauces, cheesy casseroles, white breads/pastas/products.
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