question to BMI

[Tina87]

hi there,

as I am a newbie (only been on hier for 3 days). I really want to work on my goal to get into the right BMI and to feel good about myself when I go on holiday in August.

when I did the BMI calculator on the ncs page it told me that my calorie intake should be between 1522 - 1956 calories. the ncs health plan suggest 1400. if I want to loose weight is it ok if I stick to the BMI calculater or would I need to eat less to lose weight.

sorry to ask all those questions

[Elissy 3kg]

Hi Tina, the plan gives a 'general' calorie allowance, not taking your height and weight and activity level into consideration. I stumped over that one too originally - tried to survive on 1400 even though I knew it was too low.

Go by the bmi calculator, some people go by the higher allowance, as your allowance decreases as you lose weight. I use the middle-ish, giving me a 'buffer' if I go a little over. Hope that helps 😊

[Hidden]

I agree with Elissy. Stick with the BMI range as the 1400 one is an average suggestion. If you want to lose 2 pounds a week maybe stick to the 1520 - 1670 a week. Or if you're not in a rush you could go for the higher end of the range a lose weight at slower rate? I'm doing the latter

[IndigoBlue61]

I agree, start around the middle and see how it goes 😊 One pound a week adds up and the eating plan is sustainable, important for long term success and creating good habits 😊

[Zest Healthy BMI]

Hi Tina87,

The wording in the NHS 12 week plan (week 1 download) is as follows:

"This guide will help you to reduce the number of calories you consume.

This will help you to work towards losing weight at a safe and sustainable rate of 0.5kg to 1kg (1lb to 2lbs) a week. For most men, this will mean consuming no more than 1,900kcal a day, and for most women, 1,400kcal. You can also get your own personal calorie target using the BMI calculator."

Windswept1 pointed out to me recently that this wording was amended to ensure it was clearer and more understandable by the NHS Choices compilers, so hopefully it is easy to understand.

Like Elissy , Hidden and IndigoBlue61 recommend, I would also suggest following the NHS calculator, and eating the higher or mid-range point within that range. But at the same time, having a 'range' makes it possible to vary your intake daily within that range, which can be helpful too - some days you'd probably wish to eat a bit more, and other days a bit less, but as long as you're within the range, then it's fine! It's a personalised range for your personal needs.

Hope you're enjoying the weekend.

Lowcal