What is Calorie Counting?

It is easier to lose weight when you understand the necessity for calorie counting.

A calorie is a unit of energy which is released from the food you eat in order to power your body.

Generally speaking, when you eat more calories than you burn, you will put on weight. Moreover, when you eat around the same as you burn, you should maintain your weight. However, for weight loss it is necessary to eat less and burn more.

Calorie Counting for Weight Loss

 

First, you must determine your daily calorie needs.

Your basic bodily functions require energy. For example: digestion, circulation, respiration, temperature regulation, cell construction and every other metabolic process in your body. This daily calorie requirement is called Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). Your BMR does not include physical activity.

If your BMR is around 2200 calories and you participate in moderate exercise, then your daily calorie needs would be around 3000 calories. If you are wanting to lose weight, you will need to reduce your calorie intake by 15% - 20%. Therefore, your caloric intake would be around 2400 calories.

Second, set out your calorie intake for the day.

Eat at reqular intervals during the day. For example, you may follow this meal schedule.

• #1 Meal - 600 Calories
• Snack - 200 Calories
• #2 Meal - 600 Calories
• Snack - 200 Calories
• #3 Meal - 600 Calories
• Snack - 200 Calories

The total calorie intake for the day would be 2400 calories.

Calorie Counting for weight loss is necessary for getting into shape and healthy living.

Of course, there is much more to learn about calorie counting for weight loss. But you can lose weight by choosing the right foods to eat and making exercise a part of your day.