Minimum Caloric Intake

Question
My girlfriend has always been petite (about 120 lbs at 5'8") but is trying to lose some unwanted fat around her thighs and obliques.  She's actually an aspiring model and thinks that she's got to lose about 15 pounds to get more exposure.  I can assure you that she doesn't have any self-esteem/mental issues, nor does she have any eating disorders.
She has recently started a diet that aims to keep her daily caloric intake around 600.  If she exercises, she allocates 100-200 more calories than on the days she doesn't exercise.  The thing is it seems like she's eating more food than she ever has, she just stays very conscious of the calories (she shops well).  However, I'm still worried that she's putting her body through a "starvation state" and although she's started seeing the results she wants, I'm not sure if it's entirely healthy.  Wondering if you could shed some light on the subject.

Answer
Hello Kyle!

   Thank you for your nutrition question.  Many models are under alot of stress to maintain a certain body image however, at severe costs.  Your girlfriend does not need to lose weight. In fact, she is 6lbs below her ideal body weight.  If she only eats 600 calories daily she runs the risk of missing out on alot of important nutrients.  If you check out www.mypyramid.gov you can create a healthy eating plan for her that she can enjoy and is at the correct calorie level.  I believe you will find this resource very useful!  It is really nice that you show concern for her.  

For more answers to your nutrition questions check out "Ask the Nutritionists" by George Rapitis at www.authorhouse.com

-George Rapitis, Bsc. Nutritionist

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