Despite the claims of fad diet purveyors, weight loss is entirely about calories; you can only lose weight if the calories your body burns exceed those you consume, according to MayoClinic.com. However, figuring out how many calories your body needs can be a bit confusing.
Factors Affecting Calorie Needs
Calorie requirements vary from person to person. Age, sex and body composition all affect your calorie needs; men, younger people and those with larger or more muscular bodies tend to need more calories just to exist than women, older individuals and people with smaller frames, according to MayoClinic.com.
Calculating Your Unique Calorie Needs
Years ago, it was hard for dieters to figure out exactly how many calories they needed. Today, things are easier, thanks to technology. The web abounds with reputable basal metabolic rate calculators, such as MayoClinic.com's calorie calculator, which can give you an accurate estimate of how many calories you need.
Expert Insight
If you're desperate to lose weight, you may be tempted to eat fewer calories than the minimum for your height and weight. Don't do it. Not only will you risk your health, but you'll also sabotage your weight loss efforts. The American Dietetic Association recommends 1,200 calories as an absolute minimum. Eat fewer calories than that, and you risk slowing your metabolism by putting your body into starvation mode.
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