1200 Calorie Diet
We are often unaware of our exact calorie requirement. We put on excess weight by consuming extra calories, greater than the amount needed by the body for performing normal body functions.In our effort to lose weight, if our calorie intake falls below the minimum amount needed for sustaining the normal activities, several health complications would develop. Moreover, if your calorie consumption is extremely low, the metabolic rate of your body will drop. Your body will burn lesser calories, and your weight loss effort will fail.
For healthy living, we need at least 1200 calories per day. However, the actual calorie requirement might depend on age, gender, level of physical activities and health condition. Nonetheless, 1200 calories is considered adequate for most adults. Even when you are following a weight loss program, your minimum calorie requirement should not fall below the 1200 calorie mark.
1200 calorie diet
While planning your meal, you should properly balance the carbohydrate, protein and fat intake. Carbohydrates should provide 55 percent of calories. About 15 percent of your calorie intake should be from proteins. Fats should comprise 30 percent of your total calorie intake. Unsaturated fats should comprise the major part of your calorie consumption.
Along with the balanced meal, you should drink about six to eight glasses of water and fluids. Instead of having three large meals, you should divide your big meals into five to six small meals. Although 1200 calories is adequate if you are trying to lose weight or leading a sedentary lifestyle, pregnant and nursing women and people who are physically active should consume more calories.
1200 calorie diet plan
You can meet your calorie requirement with 2 to 3 servings of fruits, 2 to 3 servings of vegetables, 3 to 4 servings of whole grain products, such as brown rice, whole grain breads or cereals, 1 to 2 servings of protein, 2 servings of low fat milk or dairy products and 1 to 4 servings of unsaturated fats. You should avoid or limit intake of refined carbohydrates.
You should try to meet your protein requirement from lean meat, fish, poultry, eggs, legumes, nuts and beans. Vegetarians should include variety of plant proteins in their meals. Try to have about five different types of fruits and vegetables every day.
