How low should you go? Why 1200 calories just isn’t enough, in fact, it could be harmful.

Today, I want to talk about the myth that eating 1200 calories a day is a healthy way to lose weight. Spoiler alert: it's not.

Now, I know this might come as a surprise to some of you. After all, we've been told for years that weight loss is all about calories in versus calories out. And if we want to lose weight, we need to create a calorie deficit by eating less and exercising more, right? Well, not necessarily.

First of all, let's talk about why 1200 calories is often seen as the magic number for weight loss. It's actually based on a general guideline that women need around 2000 calories a day to maintain their weight, and reducing that by 500-1000 calories a day can lead to weight loss. So, 1200 calories is often seen as a safe and effective target for women who want to lose weight.

But here's the problem: this guideline is just that - a guideline. It's not a one-size-fits-all recommendation. Everyone's calorie needs are different, depending on factors such as age, height, weight, activity level, and metabolism. Eating 1200 calories a day might be appropriate for some people, but for others, it could be way too low.

So, why is 1200 calories too low for a healthy body? Well, first of all, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies. When you're eating such a low amount of calories, it can be difficult to get all the vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients your body needs to function properly. This can lead to a variety of health problems, such as weakened immune system, fatigue, hair loss, and more.

Secondly, eating 1200 calories a day can slow down your metabolism. When you're not getting enough calories, your body goes into "starvation mode" and tries to conserve energy by slowing down your metabolism. This can make it harder to lose weight and easier to gain weight in the long run.

Finally, eating 1200 calories a day can be mentally and emotionally exhausting. When you're constantly restricting your calories and feeling hungry and deprived, it can take a toll on your mental health. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, which can further sabotage your weight loss efforts.

So, what should you do instead? Well, instead of focusing on calorie counting, try to focus on eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Listen to your body and eat when you're hungry, stop when you're full, and aim for a moderate calorie deficit that feels sustainable and realistic for you.

And if you need someone who’s “been there done that,” don't hesitate to reach out to me. Together, we can help you achieve your weight loss goals in a healthy, sustainable way.