frequent snacking

Question
Hello Dr. Manger,

I recently got a new job, which has me sitting at a desk all day.  Coming from an active lifestyle, I think I am gaining weight.  I have cut back on the amount I have been eating, and virtually cutting out all dessert-type food all together, But am not loosing weight.  I have heard that it is better to eat frequent small amounts throughout the day as to keep your metabolism going and help you lose weight.  Is this true?  If so, what types of things should I eat and how often should I eat them?

Thanks,
Mark

Answer
Mark,

I'd be more inclined to continue the type of "no junk food" diet you've adopted, and add some more activity or exercise after work.  Depending on how long you've been restricting calories, it may not be soon enough to see a difference.  A reasonable goal for weight loss is 3-4 pounds a month, or a pound a week.  That means that your body's calorie balance needs to be -500 every day of the week.

I am also a firm believer in calorie counting. You can download a free (no strings) calorie counter from my website to gain some insight into how much you are eating and how much you are burning (www.smartcalorie.com).  

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