How many calories?

[Foreverbaffled]

I need to take some control over my weight. I weighed myself this morning and I’m appalled at myself. I have a huge amount to lose.

I want to calorie count as it’s worked before. As has slimming world but I honestly don’t have the energy to get caught back up into that world (plus it’s incredibly expensive.) Anyway I’m really struggling to work out how many calories I need a day to lose 2lb a week.

I’m 6ft and currently weight 18stone11lb (so embarrassed to even type that out.) I am lightly active (approx 30 mins walking a day, dashing about after 2 and 5 year old) and intend to step this up to using our exercise bike (but I don’t want to factor that into my calorie count yet.) I’m still breastfeeding my toddler a couple of times a day. Does anyone know roughly what I should aim for? Some websites say 1500 a day, others closer to 2,000.

Thanks in advance!

Google how to work out your BMR (not BMI). This will show you how many calories you can eat to lose weight for your height, weight, activity levels, ages etc. You also need to take into account that you're breastfeeding and will need sufficient calories. I'd be very careful going low calorie while still feeding.

Thanks @Dontbelieveaword the BMR seems to vary depending on the calculator. I’ll do some more research. As for the breastfeeding it’s only two short feeds a day and I’m desperate to wean him fully (he’s 2 years) so not too concerned if low calorie has an effect on my milk supply.

It's a calculation you do yourself. I can't see how you can get different answers!

Your BMR will be around 1900 calories, but do use an online calculator to check! I'd try for around 1900 and try and reach as close to 10k steps a day as you can.

Thanks @Tarantullah 🙂