Weight Loss with Obesity

Question
I am curious about the amount of calories that is suppose to be comsummed to maintain/lower my weight.  I heard that there is a formula to determine your calorie intake to maintain your weight, and anything less than that will cause you to lose weight.  This may sound good, but I am finding it hard to believe because it isn't true for me.  I am obese and when I use the formula it tells me 6000 calories is to maintain.  My weight is 380 pounds and I am some what active I go the gym 3-4 times a week.  And there is no way I am eating that many calories a day.  So is the formula legit? or was it an atempt to make mathmatical sense out of weight management.

Answer
There are many formulas that estimate caloric need.  And they do just that "estimate" your needs.  It is NOT an exact science only an estimation!  
Since I have no idea which formula you used to come up with 6000 calories I cannot comment on it.  I would say that it is over estimating you by quite a bit though I know nothing about your age, height, etc...  and those factors also are important in estimating calorie needs.  Many times, for people that are overweight, an adjusted weight is used to figure calorie needs otherwise many times they are overestimated.  
If you have specific questions about your calorie needs I would recommend visiting a registered dietitian who can figure your needs and help you with a healthy eating plan.
Thank you,
Kimberly A. Tessmer, RD LD
www.Nutrifocus.net

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