Minimum cals should be net or gross?

mkupartist
mkupartist Posts: 79 Member
edited October 2024 in Food and Nutrition
I have heard that you shouldn't eat less than 1200 calories a day because that's the minimum energy it takes to keep all of your organs running as they are supposed to be. However, if i'm exercising, should that 1200 calories be net calories or do I take in the 1200 and burn whatever i'm burning exercising?

I am most successful at my weight loss when i'm eating 1650-1800 cals a day because I exercise. I want to do what's right but i'm just not sure.

Confused...

Replies

  • SueInAz
    SueInAz Posts: 6,592 Member
    As long as you are eating 1200 calories each day, you should be fine. Whether or not you choose to eat 1200 net calories (after subtracting exercise calories) really depends on you. If you are successful eating them back now, then keep doing just that. If you hit a plateau, it might be time to think about switching things up at that point.
  • erickirb
    erickirb Posts: 12,294 Member
    The 1200 minimum is meant to be a Net calorie minimum, which is why MFP adds back exercise calories.

    If you are under 5' , you may be able to get away with Netting 1000-1100.
  • farmingfool
    farmingfool Posts: 39
    Here's a link that will definitely interest you. If you scroll all the way down to the bottom it gives you calorie ranges per age and sex based on physical activity level. It would appear you are pretty much on target with the 1800 calories. Hope this helps.

    http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/dga2005/document/html/chapter2.htm
  • mkupartist
    mkupartist Posts: 79 Member
    Excellent resource! Thanks, friend.
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