[Queen Sarah]

Originally Posted by Kara

I honestly think most people who count calories are eating way too little. I have seen literally hundreds of people on message boards who START at 1200 calories because for some reason that's the magic number that they've heard for dieting.

I believe that's why most people hate dieting and are cold and miserable and tired all the time. I think if most people boosted their calories to a healthy level, they'd still lose weight (although not as fast) and they'd be much less miserable and therefore more likely to stick with it long term.

I totally agree with this! I would be starving on 1200 calories. There might be some people who aren't very active, for whom this would be enough, but really, I think 1400 is a better number for almost anybody (and more is needed, if you are active!)

[ChickieChicks]

I sleep more now. I've always indulged in an afternoon siesta, if it fit the kids schedule, but now there are days where i literally feel so tired, i can't function. i know that these time i am not eating enough, usually carbs. On days where I get a great workout, I am so phsyiclly exhausted that i often need a nap to recoup.

BUT...I fall asleep much easier at night and sleep more soundly. My energy level during most of the day is through the roof. I love feel super spunky. But it would also be nice to finally figure out what to eat pre- and post-workout so that I wasn't bottomed out.

[bargoo]

I sleep much less, I am usually awake, wide awake at 3:30 - 4:00 AM.I go to bed about 10 or so., doesn't matter if I go to bed later , 5 hours is about the max.
About 1200 calories. what I most often hear is that less than 1200 calories means you may not be getting the nutrition you need. I think people are just misunderstanding the 1200 thing.

[Intotouch]

I'm usually cold.

But on the upside think of how cheaply we eat? My ex was eating about 3,000 kcal per day (and had to the exercise fiend) and his budget for food is huge! And he spend so much time eating and shopping for food.

So I wonder which is better? Small heating bills or small eating bills?