Expert: Amanda Sarkan - 4/3/2007

Question
Hi. I eat around 1,100- 1,200 calories a day. I'm a teenage girl and I'm almost 5'9 and weigh around 155 pounds. I'm a little worried about eating more then 1,200 calories, I think I'll get fat, and I already don't like my weight and would rather be about ten pounds lighter. I keep pretty active doing 2 school sports, except in winter. What is a proper amount of calorie intake for me when I don't usually get very hungry too often and feel like I should lose weight? Also is 155 for a teenage girl at almost 5'9 a good weight? As far as my doctor says it's a good weight with my height but I'm not so sure.  

Answer
Hi Kristiana
You in no way are eating too much.  I did the calculations and based on your height and weight to maintain your weight you can eat around 2000 calories per day.  If you are doing two sports you should definitely be eating more than that, like 2300, in a healthy balance of carbs protein and fats.
You are at a healthy weight.  If you are an athlete, it is mostly muscle mass.  Instead of focusing on losing ten pounds work towards excelling in your sports and being strong and healthy.

Good luck!
Amanda