What is the optimal amount of calories for max weight loss?

[atlchick 42]

I am 7 mos out and I have done great so far but I am not sure I am eating the right amount of calories as I am often too tired to try and exercise. I just don't feel "energetic" as some have mentioned feeling at this point. Any suggestions from those that are losing steadily or about the same time out as me? I have lost about 70 lbs since surgery. I plan to revamp to get back on track for goal. One of my plans is to go back to logging my food but wasn't sure how many calories to aim for. I know its much more than I was aiming for when I initially had surgery. I am slowly getting my exercise increase as well so any suggestions is helpful. Thanks!!

[Pretty_In_Purple 112]

My dietician says no more than 1200 calories a day, MAX! Plus you want to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. :-) best of luck to you.

[macman 603]

I have logged my food since I started this journey. It works very well for me.

Calorie intake is important but just as important is the make up of the calories. How much Protein, Fats and carbohydrates are you taking in. I am 5 months out and have been doing low carb, < 50 per day. In the last few weeks I have upped my carbs to 60-70 per day and it has made a big difference with energy levels. I am still losing weight steadily, but have the energy to exercise and I feel good about it.

[atlchick 42]

Ok, I don't think I have gone over 1200. Last time I tracked I was usually around 900-1100 max but I have not been tracking lately so I started tracking again today. As of right now I have only had 566 calories and still have dinner and probably snack left for the day. Last night I started jogging again but only was 30 min. Gonna try and do that every day this week and gradually build it up as well as get back on track in the gym. Probably just got copacetic in everything so trying to vamp back up by making goals again with exercise and food...only 20lbs from my first real goal so would love to hit that by the end of summer.

I usually do more Protein than carbs so maybe I need to increase the carbs for more energy. I'll see where I am at this week by looking at my tracking. I will try and make notes as to the days I had more energy and see where my Protein and carb levels have been. I haven't been good about taking my Vitamins so Im sure that is part of it too. Started back on those yesterday, seems to have helped a little. Thanks all!