I’ve been talking about raising my calorie intake so that my workouts don’t cause me to start burning the muscle instead of fat. The trouble is that I can’t seem to eat 1500 calories, and still eat healthy, but yet, I’m not hungry.
I ate 1144 calories today, and I feel no desire to eat anymore. I mean, I could handle a scoop of ice cream, but I don’t want to start down that road.
Do I not need many calories because I sit at a desk all day?
Okay, I’ll say it again, at 5’4″, 115 lbs and moderately active (gym 2-3 times/week), I need 1600 calories, at least, per day. I still don’t know how you’re eating so few calories and not starving to death. Maybe it is metabolism …
Increase carbs and protein without increasing fat in your foods. So whole-grain pastas, skinless, boneless chicken breasts, beans, tofu/soy products (ever try ‘em?), whole-grain crackers, veggie-based soups (watch the sodium if you’re buying canned or dried), etc … these will give you more calories without adding extra fat to your diet. Just read your labels carefully. I’m sure you know to avoid anything white and creamy and deep-fried!
Congrats on the weight loss – I’m still watching!
I was just reading today that I should increase my carb intake, but only before 1 P.M. or so. Stick to protein and veggies after that time.
I think I need to do something to kick my metabolism up a few notches.
I’ve never had tofu, but I have tried a few soy-based meat substitutes. I tried a vegetarian diet a few years ago. It was too difficult to get enough protein. This time I’m going to eat meat, but I try to get it very lean. I’ve been eating more boneless, skinless chicken and turkey than any other meat.
Ever heard of a basal metabolic rate? This is the amount you need to eat to stay alive, and not gain or lose.
here’s the Discovery website:
http://health.discovery.com/tools/calculators/basal/basal.html
This will answer your question of how much. Just remember if you do not eat enough, your body will think it is starving and slow down its metabolic rate.
Have a great day and you are doing awesome!
JJJ,
Thanks for the link. It was an interesting read. According to it, my BMR is 2450. I think my BMR is actually lower, for a variety of reasons, including medication I take. I am trying to speed up my metabolism with cardio, but I’m not sure it’s working yet.
Thanks,
Dave