AboutLaura Kraemer RN,BSN,CPN Expertise Please, no anorexia, weight gain, or adult weight loss or health questions, only questions pertaining to children and teenager weight loss issues. Developed the Slimkids.com Healthy Weight Control Program. Uses only approved methods for weight control and can help puzzled parents, children and teens with their weight loss issues.
Experience Laura Kraemer RN,BSN,CPN has 28 years experience in the health services. Her background in nutrition, pediatric nursing, child development, and child health education combined with a commitment to promoting healthy living, has led to the development of the Slimkids Healthy Weight Control Program for kids and teens found at Slimkids.com.
Education/Credentials Certified pediatric registered nurse, BSN in Nursing from SUNY Brockport, NY.
Question How many calories should a 17 year old, 5 foot 6 , light exerciser have to maintain his weight?
If this is possible to figure out, can you please show me HOW to determine this?
Answer Dear Matt, it is difficult to determine the exact caloric needs of a teenager because of a teenagers growth needs (you are still growing), activity levels, muscle mass, and other factors. There are only averages set out by the Government in the form of the RDA's. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of calories for a teenage boy is 2500-3000 calories per day, less for girls. It is to be used as a guide as a starting point. If you are losing weight while eating that amount after a few weeks, add some calories. If you are gaining weight, start with the lower number or exercise more to lose or maintain weight. It will not be easy figuring out your exact daily calories. There are websites and software that can track it for you, if interested. Hope that helps, Laura Kraemer,Slimkids.com
