Health Tip of the Day: Get the Most Out of Your Calories

Posted on July 22, 2010 by Lolita Carrico

Whether you’re trying to lose weight or not, paying attention to your calories is important.  I’m not saying by any means you need to count them, but you should be aware of how many you need a day and about how many you’re consuming.  If you’re trying to lose a few, then of course, you should pay more attention.

If you have three meals and two snacks per day they should range from 350-500 calories and snacks can be almost 200.  Every one’s different, but according to nutritionist Dara Godfrey, this is average for a woman.  The real trick is to get the most out of the calories you consume from nutrient-rich foods and not to waste them on things that won’t satisfy your hunger.

Instead of having a recovery shake from your gym’s cafe or a protein shake that averages about 300 calories, opt for a non-fat Greek yogurt after your workout to get your protein fix.  Green yogurt only has about 90 calories and eating rather than drinking a meal or snack is more satisfying.