If you are trying to lose weight, you might have heard the “count calories” advice many times. What exactly are calories? How do you count your calorie intake and how many calories do you really need? By simply understanding the facts and making a few changes in your lifestyle, you can shed those extra pounds and keep them away.

First, what are calories?

Calories are the fuel for your body. Our body needs energy to keep it functioning just like a car needs gasoline to keep it going. The body derives its energy from the calories in food. Carbohydrates, proteins and fats from your food are metabolized to produce energy which is measured as calories. This energy powers your body to carry out daily tasks. Extra energy gets stored as fat. While carbohydrates and proteins contain 4 calories per gram, fats contain 9 calories per gram.

How can counting calories help me to lose weight?

The key to weight loss is to burn more calories than you consume. By cutting down your calorie intake, you can lose weight since you will be consuming just enough calories for your body to carry out routine activities. There will be no extra calories that will get converted to fat deposits.

How much calories should I consume if I want to lose weight?

There is no fixed answer to that question. Most experts suggest an intake of 1200-1400 calories for those trying to lose weight. Of course, it varies according to your activity levels and your current weight. Before you go in for a reduced calorie diet, remember that it is not possible to stick to a 1200-calorie diet forever. You also need to include exercise into your regimen so as to burn away excess calories.