[c44_100]

Could someone tell me what a healthy percentage of Protein, Carbs, and Fat should be a day while trying to stay at 1200 calories per day?

[Suzanne 3FC]

You'll probably get a lot of different answers, because many people find their own combination that works for them. It can vary depending on the diet you choose to follow, as well as your personal needs.

According to the new USDA guidelines, carbs should be 45 to 65%, total fat should be 20 to 35%, and the remainder protein (10 to 35%). So as long as you are somewhere in those ranges, you should be fine

[c44_100]

Many thanks!!

[DairyQueen]

But dieters (people who are restricting themselves to less than normal calories) should increase protein percentage to stay more full.

[2frustrated]

Protein helps you stay fuller longer, AND prevents too much muscle wastage when you diet, so you don't completely wreck your metabolism!

Also depends what kind of exercise you do - people who weight train need more protein, whereas long distance runners, or people who do a LOT of cardio need more carbs.