Total Calories or Net Calories

[Apple1 2,572]

On my tracking app it reports both total calories and net calories and I am wondering which figure is the most important? My workouts and steps walked automatically syncs with the app so I don't even have to input my exercise. The reason I ask is because I thought I was getting close to 800 calories per day, but when I look at my net calories it is actually more like 500-600.

[JPM514 20]

This is a great question that I don't really know the answer to. I think the focus is trying to get to the protien goal and Water goals more than anything. I had my surgery a month ago and I still can't quite make it to 80 g. of protien a day.

As for calories I am about where you are too

[Apple1 2,572]

6 hours ago, JPM514 said:

This is a great question that I don't really know the answer to. I think the focus is trying to get to the protien goal and Water goals more than anything. I had my surgery a month ago and I still can't quite make it to 80 g. of protien a day.

As for calories I am about where you are too

I am not consistently making my Protein goal either and I am one month post -op also. Yesterday I was at 70g, but the day before only 50g. I find my hunger and ability to eat varies day to day.

I wasn't even considering the effect of my exercise on my calorie intake until I noticed the net calorie total on my tracking app. I am just not sure if I should be considering that number or just ignore it.

[queendeborahbee 119]

My net can be a negative number, lol. Don't eat more calories, just realize this will help lose more!

[KateBruin 344]

Also keep in mind that studies have shown smart watch exercise tracking apps all overestimate calories burned. Some are worse than others.

[Apple1 2,572]

4 hours ago, KateBruin said:

Also keep in mind that studies have shown smart watch exercise tracking apps all overestimate calories burned. Some are worse than others.

Yes I would agree. I wonder if my elliptical over estimates calories burned? It also syncs my workouts with my tracking app. I have decide to just go by total calories when considering my intake.