The mathematics of weight management

Weight loss or gain does not happen solely due to the interplay between food intake and hormones in the body. Genetics and eating behaviour play an indispensably crucial role. Nevertheless, the simple equations of calories consumed versus calories expended do retain their importance and remain the basis for all calculations in the dietary management of weight issues.

We always advise the people to ‘eat less and exercise more’. But I also believe that it is just as important to acquaint oneself with the rationale of cutting down on calories. You must be aware of the number of calories you need daily to maintain your current weight. The best and the most scientific way to do this is by multiplying your current body weight (in lbs) with 15. From this figure (which is your current daily calorie intake), a deduction of 500 calories will give you your daily calorie intake required.

If you weigh 68 kg (150 lbs), you are consuming 15 x 150 = 2,250 calories everyday to maintain this weight. If you want to lose weight (depending on other factors that determine whether or not you are overweight), you need to consume about 2,250-500 = 1,750 calories every day. This way you can lose one to two pounds per week. nsingh.rxpress@expressindia.com