[Ethereal]

I'm sure you guys have been asked this question hundreds of times, but I haven't been having any luck finding it (at least not a direct question/answer): If I'm eating approximately 1500 calories per day, sometimes going between 1300 and 1600 to keep my body guessing, will I do any harm to have an even lower calorie day? Say, around 1000 or 1100? Or will it help with the "body guessing" strategy?

I end up short on calories regularly at the end of the day and rather than forcing myself to eat, I'd greatly prefer leaving it alone, but I don't want to hinder my weight loss or damage my metabolism!

Any help is appreciated!

[FreeSpirit]

Just like having some higher calorie days won't mess up your diet too bad, I doubt that having some lower calorie days will either. Just be sure that you don't do it too often or make a habit out of it.

[BlueToBlue]

I agree. I don't worry about the occasional low-calorie day because I figure there are plenty of high-calorie days (more than I'd like, frankly) to even it out. But I don't make a habit of it.

[Ethereal]

I'll do my best. Thanks!

[WannaBeMrsDepp]

I'm glad you asked this question, because I find myself doing the same thing. Like yesterday I went to the movies and had popcorn and a reg. soda, but the day before I only had about 1100 calories. HOpefully it will all balance out.

[BoopRN]

I've been falling short on my calories too. I've found that I do get a little tired after a work out session easier. I think the best way to fulfill your calories is with healthier choices of food. But, I am guilty of not doing that either I always end up falling short of my calorie intake b/c I'm so conscious of what I eat for every meal.

[meowee]

I tend to think "by the week" instead of "by the day". Your body doesn't really need to get every calorie and every nutrient every single day so long as you maintain a good balance over a sensible period of time.

[Minty Fresh]

I also go on the "by the week" philosophy, as I remember that when my kids were younger, my pediatrician would tell me as long as my son ate 4 good dinner meals a week, he would be fine (he didn't like ANY food for dinner for a period of time).

[Kilketay]

I agree with the by the week philosophy. You're body doesn't have a timer that resets at midnight. As long as you're getting adequate nutrition over a week, a day or two of lower calories won't do you any harm!