A recent article reports that the average American eats almost a ton of food each year, and an average of 2700 Calories per day. The article also states that a “suggested healthy average” intake is 2000 Calories. Current food labeling regulations compare nutrient content to a 2000 Calorie per day diet; however, not everyone needs 2000 Calories per day. You can find a calorie calculator online that estimates calorie needs, but it is only an estimate based on population data and age, gender, height and weight.
There are a couple of ways that you can more accurately assess calorie needs. First is to have energy expenditure measured through a process called indirect calorimetry. You breathe into a machine, and it calculates energy expenditure based on oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide output. Another way is to accurately record everything that you eat for several days. Assuming accurate reporting and maintenance of weight, the amount that you are eating is the amount that your body needs to maintain its current weight.
Want to know how much you are consuming? Contact me for an evaluation of your intake, including total calories and a breakdown of individual nutrient intakes. I can even provide some individualized recommendations.
