Diet Or Burn The Fat Feed The Muscle?

Question
hi i am starting a calorie diet of 1512 calories a day i weigh 189 and 5'5". should i lower calorie intake even more. and for example today i burned 735 calorie today out of 1512 so that means i still am gaining weight right??

Answer
Dear Lesli

Thanks for your question. Judging by your weight and height, you shouldn't try to lower your calorie intake any further. It already is on the low side. Lowering calorie intake too much will just put your body in a 'starvation mode'. This means that your body will say to itself 'Hey, I am not getting the nutrition I need. I had better hold onto what I have!'. This means that your metabolism will slow right down, making it even harder to lose weight. This is the last thing you want.

I would rather emphasize physical activity. What is your level of activity during the day? If you can add extra exercise and activity, you will be losing weight in a much more healthy way. One way of doing this, is by working out with weights at home. You don't need expensive equipment. A weight bench, exercise ball and some dumbbells should suffice as is shown in this review article:
http://www.activity-sports-fitness.com/2008/01/23/turbulence-training-vs-burn-th...

As you add muscle mass, your body will begin to burn calories much faster and more efficiently - even while your sleep! Doesn't that sound good? It is much more fun than trying to follow a strict diet. You will begin to lose centimeters in all the vital places and your clothes will begin to fit better.

You can also try to add activity in any number of other pleasant ways. Go bike riding, walk the dog, go dancing or go for a nice hike. Try to put on lively dance music while cleaning the house and add some oomph to your movements...

I really hope that this is of some help to you and that you find that level where you begin to lose weight comfortably and in a healthy way. Remember, the extra weight was added over a long period. Be patient with yourself and lose it over time. That is the only way to keep it off in the long term.

Best wishes
Rika Susan

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