Ki Fit

Big story in the news this weekend implying that scientists have given the green light to add 400 extra calories (equivalent of a cheese burger) to our daily recommended intake.

See http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/nov/14/daily-calorie-guidance-rise

Having read the actual draft report (http://www.sacn.gov.uk/pdfs/5nov_sacn_energy_drafting_group_draft.pdf) it is clear that the media has taken the recommendations in the report out of context, sensationalising the message. Why, in a nation where obesity is one of the greatest public nutrition issues would leading nutrition experts push for more junk food to be eaten?!

For reasons outlined in the report (such as an increase of the average weight of the UK population), the proposed new average energy requirement for adults is 16% higher than those that were calculated in 1991. However the report stresses that the revised values should NOT be misinterpreted to mean that individuals or groups should increase energy intake. Given that 60 per cent of British adults are overweight or obese it is clear that many people take in more calories than they need. For this reason, the report emphasises the need for people to increase physical activity in relation to calorie intake in order to reduce the rising obesity rates. So unlike what is being portrayed in the media this is not a green light to eat yourself silly!

Most importantly however, is that you remember that government guidelines are exactly that – just a guideline. Everyone is different and one size does not fit all! If you want to manage your weight you need to know your body so you can effectively take control. An understanding of exactly how many calories you burn in relation to how many calories you consume is the key to sustainable weight loss.