Is The 1200 Calorie Diet Right For You?
July 1, 2009 
Whether the 1200 calorie diet is adequate for you depends on your current calorie intake and on your body type. First of all, you need to use a calorie counter in order to determine the ratio between the calorie intake and burned calories. For determining your body type, you need to calculate the BMI (body mass index), or the ratio between your height and body weight.
Gender also plays an important role when choosing a diet. While the 1200 calorie diet is adequate for women who want to lose weight rapidly, men should try 1500-1700 calorie diets for the same purpose.
Premise: The premise of this diet is that you will lose weight if you reduce your calorie intake and practice portion control. Fat and alcohol are rich in calories, and hence, should be avoided when following a low calorie diet. In contrast, protein and carbs are found at the other extreme.
Diet: A 1200 calorie diet should comprise:
- Grains - 5 servings
- Vegetables - 3 servings
- Fruits - 2 servings
- Beans, nuts, seeds, meat substitutes and eggs - 5 ounces
What to get excited over: Provided that your current diet provides 1700 calories, switching to a 1200 calorie diet will help you to lose 1 pound per week. Weight loss is even more obvious when your previous diet has more calories.
Things to consider: A sudden transition from a high calorie diet to a low calorie diet plan may be complicated and could wreak havoc on your body. Hence, you are advised to make the change gradually.
The Verdict: If weight loss is your goal, you are suggested to try acai berry instead of a low calorie diet. This fruit is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins that improve the immune system and digestion, and protect your body form cancer and heart diseases. Overall, acai berry may provide more benefits than a simple 1200 calorie diet.
You must maintain a nutritious and balanced diet, and give your body adequate calories, to remain healthy for life!
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