I'm getting confused and I want to make sure I'm doing this right.

The calculator tells me to maintain my weight I would need to eat about 2500 calories. I want to lose 10 pounds by my birthday next month, but ultimitely lose 30 more pounds so I'm in this for the long haul. I started at 1100 calories but that was way too low and I could barely function. Now I'm eating about 1700 calories. My mom was telling me not to go lower than 1800! I feel like everyone else my height (5'6") are eating way less calories. I exercise 4 times a week nothing too intense though I'm a beginner. Opinions?

I would ask yourself- how do you feel? When you're eating 1700 calories, how are your energy levels? Are you able to get through your workouts? Do you feel like you're suffering and starving hungry? Depending on your answers, I think you can get a pretty good idea of how you're doing.

Also, your scale and measurements don't usually lie (over a long period of time) so you can look at those to determine how things are going as well.

I don't think 1700 is too low- but, if you're worried- why not start out a little higher for a little while and if you aren't seeing results- lower your calories OR increase exercise.

I think a lot of weight loss is about trial and error and finding out what works best for you hope that helps and good good luck!!

I donīt think 1700 is too low. When I was 180 I started at 1200 a day and felt great. The key is just listening to your body. It will tell you what is right to you. Donīt worry about mixing things up until you get it right.

I am almost the same weight/height as you. I eat 1600 cals/day and have consistently been losting 1.5-2lbs per week. It's been a great number for me I occassinaly have an 1800 calorie day as well (like once every 2 weeks or so).

2500 calories will maintain your weight at 209. To figure out your calories to lose weight you start with your goal weight which would give you about 1700 to lose weight.