What are my daily calorie needs?
There is a right number of calories for you to eat each day. Find your number on the Estimated Calories Needed table on the next page. For example, a 40-year-old, sedentary woman should aim for 1,800 calories a day, while a 25-year-old, sedentary male should aim for 2,400 calories a day. You could use up the entire amount on a few high-calorie items, but chances are you won’t get the full range of vitamins and nutrients that your body needs. HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Eat a variety of nutrient-packed foods and beverages within and among the basic food groups, while limiting foods with saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, added sugars, salt, as well as alcohol. Select a variety of foods from each food group and within food groups. A healthy eating plan is one that: • Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products • Includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans (legumes), eggs, and nuts • Is low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, s
