Hello, I have a question?

Question
My son which is 13 years old barely gets any exercise besides gym at school every other day. He is 5'5, 122 pounds, and a male 13 year old. He is currently eating 1800 calories a day. How many calories should he eat to maintain his weight? Will eating 2000 cause weight gain?

Answer
There is no specific answer only averages, so it is difficult to determine the exact caloric needs of a growing teenager. The recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for a growing teenage boy would be 2,500-3000 calories per day.
If he is eating only 1800 calories per day,to get all the needed nutrients, those calories should be in the form of healthy foods like: three milk portions, three protein portions, healthy fats, whole grain bread, and vegetables. Encourage a daily walk of at least thirty minutes per day; the US government is now suggesting 45 minutes of active exercise per day. If he is active he can eat more calories and maintain his weight until he grows. His weight will increase as he grows; on average one inch of growth is equal to 5-7 pounds. Hope that helps, Laura Kraemer,Slimkids.com

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