Expert: Simon Evans, PhD - 4/23/2007

Question
I have a question about metabolism. I am trying to, unsurprisingly, lose some weight. First, I know the general rule is eat at minimum  1200 calories a day in order to lose without speeding down metabolism, but since I am quite a bit smaller than average, 5 foot 0 to be exact, could I possibly go lower without suffering those negative side effects? Also, I was wondering how long it takes one, what with eating less than 1200 cals a day, in order for it to effect ones metabolism. If I dip below that just for a day am I going to see negative consequences?

Thanks so much!
Amanda

Answer
Amanda,

Even though many nutritionists promote the notion, there is no one size fits all formula. Your own genetics, the source of calories, your level of physical exertion and history all play roles.

The bottom line answer is that I would not go below the 1200 calories - don't like going below 1800 calories a day.

You have to trust your own instincts. If you are eating slow burning complex carbohydrates that are high in fiber, lean sources of protein and good fats from fish, nuts or fatty veggies - then you should eat when you feel truly hungry.

Don't try and starve yourself to lose weight - it will only backfire.

I talk about appropriate eating in the second chapter of my book, Brain Fitness. If you are interested in looking at that visit http://www.thebraincode.com/book.html

Diets rarely work long term so you need to find a sustainable eating plan that you enjoy and that gives you results. Just please don't try to lose weight too quickly, that is not the healthy way to do it. Depending on how much weight you want to lose you should shoot for a 1 to 2 year plan to get you there.

Hope this helps.