If I eat what the DietWatch guidelines say, I'd be consuming at least 300-400 more calories a day

Eat Enough to Lose Weight
by Jennifer May, M.S., R.D., M.S.
From DietWatch

Q: There is much information on eating too much and cutting back on food, but what if you don't eat enough to start with? I eat roughly 900-1000 calories a day, and run 5-6 times a week, plus lift weights 3 times a week. Yet I never seem to drop weight. If I cut back on food, I have no idea what to drop -- my protein shake, my plain vegetables, boiled chicken? If I eat what the DietWatch guidelines say, I'd be consuming at least 300-400 more calories a day than I presently eat. Wouldn't I then gain weight?

A: You will not lose weight if you don't eat enough, especially since you exercise so often. Your body uses, and needs, energy (calories) to function properly. If you are not providing enough energy for those needs, your metabolism will slow down, and 900-1000 calories per day are simply not enough. I recommend increasing your intake and seeing what happens. I also recommend that you focus on obtaining your nutrients through whole foods versus shakes or supplements. Lean meats, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, nuts, seeds, beans - these are all excellent sources of protein. Your exercise routine sounds great - your body just needs more energy for its daily functions.

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Jennifer May, M.S., R.D., M.S. is the Manager of Nutrition Services for DietWatch. Jennifer has provided nutrition and fitness counseling in a variety of settings, including medical facilities, assisted living communities, health and wellness organizations, and educational institutions. She has also produced articles, newsletters, and other educational materials and has appeared on radio and television. Jennifer holds two master's degrees from Indiana University, one in nutrition science and one in exercise physiology.