Lowering bodyfat, calories, and protein (some rookie confusion)

[lasqueen]

So everyone's been super helpful and supportive of my journey thus far. I just have some questions.

To lower body fat, I'd have to create a caloric deficit, yes? Does this mean I should lower calories too? Or if I just cut out the crap in my diet (while still eating 1800 calories, which is maintenance), I'll also shed body fat? What if I eat less than 1800 calories (but still crappy?) will I lower in body fat? What if I eat more in 1800 but high in protein, will I lower my body fat?

Thanks guys

[freebirdmac]

It's all about calories in versus calories out for fat loss. There must be a deficit for fat loss no matter what you eat. Now the quality of the food you consume affects how your body functions. It's tougher to gain/preserve muscle mass without sufficient protein and having quality nutrients from other foods. Food can also effect moods, energy levels, skin, recovery, and on and on.

If you consume 1g - 1.5g of protein per pound of bodyweight, .3-.5g of good fats per pound of bodyweight, and 25g of fiber then you could fill in the rest of your cals however you want. I wouldn't do the junk food route everyday, the better you eat the better you'll look and feel, but it gives you wiggle room.

[sweeth4796]

It's all about calories in versus calories out for fat loss. There must be a deficit for fat loss no matter what you eat. Now the quality of the food you consume affects how your body functions. It's tougher to gain/preserve muscle mass without sufficient protein and having quality nutrients from other foods. Food can also effect moods, energy levels, skin, recovery, and on and on.

If you consume 1g - 1.5g of protein per pound of bodyweight, .3-.5g of good fats per pound of bodyweight, and 25g of fiber then you could fill in the rest of your cals however you want. I wouldn't do the junk food route everyday, the better you eat the better you'll look and feel, but it gives you wiggle room.

amen sister!