Counting Calories for Better Health

Calories are a measure of the amount of energy contained in the foods and beverages we consume. They are essential for the body to operate, providing energy for basic bodily functions such as breathing, circulation, and digestion. That’s why you burn calories even when you are at rest. And of course calories also give you energy for physical activity.

The number of calories you need every day depends on various factors such as age, sex, height, weight, and activity level. On average, a sedentary adult needs around 2,000-2,500 calories per day, while an active adult may need 2,500-3,000 calories per day or more.

It is important to note that not all calories are created equal. The source of the calorie and the nutrients that come with it can have a significant impact on overall health. For example, a 100-calorie apple provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while a 100-calorie donut provides mostly sugar and saturated fat. Choose the source of your calories wisely for optimal health.

Consuming more calories than the body needs can lead to weight gain, which can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Consuming fewer calories than the body needs can lead to weight loss, but it is important to ensure that the body still receives all the necessary nutrients.

It’s important to pay attention to portion sizes of food and drinks. Don’t fall into the trap of reading that serving of ice cream is 200 calories… and then realizing the bowl you served it in holds five servings. You might want to count, measure, or weigh your food for a while to get a feel for how much is in a serving size so you can accurately calculate the calories. Reading nutrition labels can help identify the calorie content of packaged foods and drinks. Keeping track of food intake using a food diary or mobile app can also be helpful in managing calorie intake.

Paying attention to your calory intake is just a part of your overall nutritional health. If you are interested in finding out how many calories you need to meet your goals, as well as other tips on nutrition and exercise, email me at jwalsh1@pcsonet.com

To schedule a personal health and fitness consultation with Justin, send him an email at jwalsh1@pcsonet.com, or call him at 727-410-0025.

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