I just noticed I lost about 20 pounds within 3 months. I don’t know how I did it but I want to keep losing weight – but not too much. I am 16 and… what I’d really like to know is what should my calories and carb intake be at my age? I’m trying to keep track of how much I take in so I could get to the weight I’m comfortable with. Thank you very much. – MFM
Dear MFM,
Thank you for writing to us. I’m glad to have an opportunity to respond to your letter. First, you state that you don’t know how, but you lost 20 pounds within 3 months. It really is important to investigate this further – were there significant changes in your activity level or were you involved with a sport? Has your family changed the types of foods you’re eating or begun cooking with less fat? Have you been under a lot of stress? These could be reasons why you have lost weight. On the other hand, have you noticed a decrease in your appetite or have you been sick? Even without any symptoms, unexplained weight loss is something for you to check out with your doctor, to be sure there isn’t a medical problem. So, be safe and make an appointment to see him or her.
I know you are pleased with the results of your weight loss and hope to lose more, but it’s first important to establish whether or not this was a healthy change. Your doctor can refer you to a registered dietitian who can assess your overall eating and help you with your meal planning. Eating well involves much more than focusing on carbs and calories. We’re only given one body, and we want to take the best care of it that we can! You are at a good age to form life-long healthy attitudes and habits to do just that.
Take care,
Ann