What is calories and why is it important?
The amount of energy in an item of food or drink is measured in calories. When we eat and drink more calories than we use up, our bodies store the excess as body fat. If this continues, over time we may put on weight. As a guide, an average man needs around 2,500kcal (10,500kJ) a day to maintain a healthy body weight.
Why is it important to watch your calories?
Counting calories can help you lose weight by bringing awareness to what you eat each day. This can help you identify eating patterns that you may need to modify, keeping you on track to reach your goals.
Do calories make you fat?
You gain weight when you eat more calories than you burn — or burn fewer calories than you eat. While it is true that some people seem to be able to lose weight more quickly and more easily than others, everyone loses weight when they burn up more calories than they eat.
How much calories should I eat a day?
Though it differs depending on age and activity level, adult males generally require 2,000-3000 calories per day to maintain weight while adult females need around 1,600-2,400 according to the U.S Department of Health.