How Many Calories Should You Eat? | Dr. Neal Barnard
Do you need to eat 2,000 calories per day? Is it more? Perhaps less?
This episode of The Exam Room™ Podcast is sponsored by The Gregory J. Reiter Memorial Fund, which supports organizations like the Physicians Committee that carry on Greg’s passion and love for animals through rescue efforts, veganism, and wildlife conservation.
Despite what you may think, there is no "one size fits all" approach to daily caloric needs. Learn how to determine how many calories you need with Dr. Neal Barnard, author of The Power Foods Diet. He joins "The Weight Loss Champion" Chuck Carroll who has lost and kept off nearly 300 pounds for over 15 years.
Key points discussed include:
Caloric needs: Dr. Barnard explains that while 2,000 calories is a common benchmark for a typical American adult, caloric needs vary based on factors such as body size, metabolism, and physical activity levels. Taller and heavier individuals generally require more calories.
Weight loss plateaus: The conversation addresses the common issue of weight loss plateaus, where individuals stop losing weight despite efforts. Dr. Barnard emphasizes the importance of monitoring caloric intake and suggests that if weight loss stalls for two weeks, it may be time to reassess dietary habits.
Dietary guidelines: Dr. Barnard shares practical tips for maintaining a healthy diet, including focusing on high-fiber foods, avoiding added fats, and incorporating power foods like fruits and vegetables that promote weight loss.
Mindset around food: The discussion touches on the psychological aspect of dieting, highlighting that individuals can still enjoy their favorite foods by making healthier versions, which can help reduce the fear of abstaining from certain foods altogether.