I need a good site or formula to figure out the approximate calories I should take in a day. I realize it is pretty approximate, but I need a general guideline. I get very frustrated because it varies 200-500 calories depending on the site. That is a whole meal. So if I go by one, I could be overeating or undereating. This one I was looking at today (http://www.inch-aweigh.com/dcn.php) said,
"You need about 720 calories during a typical day to maintain your current weight.
Remember that this estimate is based on your body weight, height, age, gender, and your average level of activity.
Want to lose weight?
If you subtract 750 from this figure and consume that amount each day, you should lose one to two pounds a week, as long as you maintain your current activity level and follow a balanced diet."
So, if i would go by that, they are basically telling me not to eat anything at all! I want to do this right. I am going to work hard and be careful. But, if I am doing this based all around the wrong numbers and gain or maintain or even just do not lose as much as I would have, it is really frustrating. Please advise.