The key to healthy weight management is to maintain healthy eating patterns and have an active lifestyle. Ever wondered what our body does to the food we eat? Our body breaks down the food to release energy. Calories are therefore the units of energy that our food provides. Calories are essential as we need energy for our body to function and work properly.
How many calories are in one gram of fat, carbohydrate and protein?
1g of fat is equivalent to 9 calories
1g of carbohydrate is equivalent to 4 calories
1g of protein is equivalent to 4 calories
Weight is a balancing act
Calories consumed > Calories burned = Weight gain
Calories consumed < Calories burned = Weight loss
Calories consumed = Calories burned = No weight change
What should my daily intake of calories be?
The average recommended daily intake is 1,800 kcal for females, and 2200 kcal for males. However, this varies among individuals as age, height, weight and activity level also comes into play. One who exercises regularly will require more calories than another who is less active.