How many calories a day should I eat while on a ketogenic Diet? The number of calories you should eat while on a ketogenic diet will depend on several factors, including your age, gender, activity level, and body composition. In general, a ketogenic diet is a high-fat, moderate-protein, low-carbohydrate diet that forces the body to use fat as its primary source of fuel, rather than carbohydrates.
A common starting point for determining daily calorie needs on a ketogenic diet is to multiply your body weight in pounds by 10-16 to estimate your daily calorie needs. From there, you can adjust the calorie intake based on your individual needs and goals.
Typically, a ketogenic diet should consist of approximately 70-75% fat, 20-25% protein, and 5-10% carbohydrates. This will typically equate to a daily calorie intake of 1500-1700 calories per day for a person weighing 140 pounds but can vary greatly depending on the individual.
It is important to note that the ideal calorie intake for each person on a ketogenic diet will vary, and it may be necessary to work with a doctor or registered dietitian to determine the right calorie intake for you. Two names we highly respect are Dr. Jacob Wilson and Ryan Lowry. These guys are experts on the subject and highly reputable.
Additionally, it is important to monitor your progress and adjust your calorie intake as necessary to achieve your goals.
Sources:
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: https://www.eatright.org/weight-loss/diets/ketogenic-diet
- Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ketogenic-diet-101#how-much-to-eat
