A helping hand for the newbie

renee_lee88
renee_lee88 Posts: 23 Member
edited October 3 in Introduce Yourself
:happy: Hi Guys,

I'm new to this calorie counting thing, I've tried to go it on my own for the past week and have successfully been able to lose my goal amount this week. I would just like some extra information if anyone can help me.

I am about 180cm tall and currenly weigh in at 107kgs I have been allocated a 1300 calorie a day limit which I find that at times I struggle to get to, I feel like I'm eating HEAPS of food and my body is telling me I'm full but I still have not eaten enough calories for the day. I'm actually finding myself looking for more food just so I can make the calories up and I'm afriad I'll end up eating the wrong foods. Can you give me some tips on food that will up my calorie count but not damage my hard work?

I also do 30mins of cardio a day which includes 10mins of dancing and 20mins walking on my treadmill. Is this going to get me where I need to go in the weightloss game? MFP is telling me I'm not eating enough calories and I'm afraid I am putting my body into starvation mode without even knowing it and I'm far from feeling starved, I'm actually fuller than I was before I started eating properly. I am also eating a variety of carbs, fats and protein to keep me going. Just a quick run down on whats the best technique and some tips would be greatly appreciated.

This Aussie Gal needs a helping hand :)

Replies

  • niknak2308
    niknak2308 Posts: 315 Member
    Hi,

    Whenever I need to up my calories a bit, I'll have a healthy chewy bar for about 80/100cals, or maybe a banana if I'm lacking energy (about 100 cals)... I think as long as it's healthy calories you won't be jeopardising your hard work. I think nuts are also fairly high cal but super healthy. Feel free to add me as a friend if you're wanting to add people.

    :)
  • montiy
    montiy Posts: 32 Member
    Definitely eat those calories. Since you're doing so much exercise, your body will need the calories -- in order to keep your metabolism up. You'll be eating more than you're used to, at least for a while -- but it's the right thing to do, as long as you are aware of your limit and don't start to go over. :)
  • clamour_kid
    clamour_kid Posts: 16
    Hey, don't despair, I am having the same issue too and you know what? Its fine to be shorter than your goal. So long as you are not 400 - 500 shorter then its ok. My daily calorie goal is 1700, but frequently I am finishing up on 1400 - 1500. Just leave it there, it will help you burn more off.

    Also, as you lose weight, your BMR will reduce, meaning your calorie goals for the day should change.

    Keep it up and good luck!
  • carrie564
    carrie564 Posts: 44 Member
    Wow. Not eating enough is quite the ideal 'problem' to have. I'd say if you're not feeling full, and not feeling tired/weak, then eat as much food as you want. Don't force any extra. If you want high calorie but still healthy, I'd focus on nuts, granola, regular dairy (not 'light'), and other whole grains.

    Your workout sounds really simple, so if you're already comfortable with that amount/exertion, you need to start upping that. Your body only drops weight when stress is put on it, so your workouts need to be harder every week. Doing the 30 min of simpler stuff is ok if you're just trying to maintain weight & keep your heart/lungs healthy, but you look young & strong, and you're trying to LOSE weight. That'll take a lot of SWEAT. Make each workout COUNT & don't come home & shower until your shirt is wet and smelly. Envision that each drop of sweat is the fat that you just melted out of your body. :)
  • SneakyTam
    SneakyTam Posts: 11 Member
    try not to look at the whole 1300 calories idea and instead look at it as calorie goals per meal. Try for 350 calories for b/fast 350 calories for lunch, 400 calories at dinner and 2x 100 calorie snacks per day (try to have one snack between b/fast and lunch and one between lunch & dinner. Any extra calories that you earn from your exercise divide up between your 3 main meals or treat yourself to a nice healthy dessert : )

    Good luck on your journey... looks like your off to a great start :happy:
  • renee_lee88
    renee_lee88 Posts: 23 Member
    Thanks guys :)

    Its becoming alot clearer now, I'm starting to source some recipes that should get me closer to my goal, have a look at my new recipe I uploaded called "Impossible Quiche" sounds wonderful and the calories are just right to finish the day with.

    Its so great to know that there are people out there who will respond and reply to any queries that I may have... its very supportive and encouraging.

    Thanks again xx
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