The average woman should consume around 2000 calories a day to maintain her weight, or around 1500 calories a day to lose one pound a week. Men need more calories than women: 2500 to maintain their weight, and 2000 to lose a pound a week. This is only a rough guideline, however, as many factors affect the number of calories we need to either maintain or lose weight. These factors include the level of activity, metabolic rate, age, height, and current weight, among others. But what exactly are calories?
Calories are units of energy, and we use them to indicate the energy content of food and drink. To maintain your weight, if you’re happy with it, you need to eat roughly the same number of calories as you burn every day. But, if you wish to lose a few pounds, you need to take in fewer calories than your body burns for its energy needs. If the idea of reducing your calories is too awful for words, try these tips for avoiding starving while cutting down on your calorie intake.
- Cut out all sugary drinks and fruit juices.
- Include more protein for greater satisfaction and increased calorie-burning.
- Exercise and lift weights for increased metabolism and weight loss.
- Try following a low-carb diet as opposed to a low-fat diet. You’re likely to lose more weight.
- Drink more water, especially before meals to curb hunger.
