If I Only Take In 1,200 Calories Daily Without Exercise, Can I Maintain My Weight?

How many calories you require to maintain your weight depends on several factors, including your age, weight, gender and level of physical activity. If you refrain from exercising, your diet alone will determine whether you gain or lose weight. Without exercising, only basic metabolic functions burn calories.

Basal Metabolic Rate

Your body burns more calories when exercising because your working muscles require extra energy. By not exercising, your body only uses calories to perform basic body functions, including respiration, blood circulation, brain activity, digestion, thermo-regulation and all normal motor function. The total number of calories you need per day to perform these functions is your basal metabolic rate, which is the amount you need to maintain your weight if you do not exercise.

Minimum Caloric Intake

MedlinePlus, under the direction of the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. National Library of Medicine, advises that women consume at least 1,200 calories per day and that men consume at least 1,500 calories a day. These numbers are based on the needs of average men and women. Depending on your body size, health and age, you may qualify for a more limited diet to maintain your current weight; however, talk to your doctor to discuss your specific caloric requirements and to determine whether caloric restrictions are appropriate.

Balanced Nutrition

When consuming a limited number of calories, especially at numbers as low as 1,200, what you eat becomes more important. Regardless of the number of calories you eat, your body requires the same amounts of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that it relies on for basic cellular functions. Proteins, fiber, sugars, carbohydrates, iron, potassium and a host of vitamins are all required to maintain a healthy body. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that you have daily servings of fruits, vegetables, proteins, dairy and grains in order to receive all your necessary nutrients.

Health Considerations

When trying to maintain your weight, it is important to consider other issues that may affect gain and loss. While your daily caloric intake and exercise schedule are the most blatant factors, there are health complications which can lead to unexpected or erratic weight fluctuations. Intenstinal disorders, thyroid problems, cancer, respiratory and other infectious diseases can all lead to weight loss or, in some cases, weight gain. If your weight begins to change without significant change in diet or exercise, consult your doctor to discuss your dietary needs and concerns.