11.6

Calories and energy balance

Think of calories as your body’s fuel.

They come from the food and drinks you consume.

Every activity, from walking to thinking, requires energy, measured in calories.

Here’s the balance scoop:

Energy In: This is what you eat and drink.

Foods like fruits, grains, and proteins all contribute.

But remember, moderation is key.

Energy Out: This is what you burn through physical activity and daily functions.

Moving, breathing, and even sleeping use up energy.

To maintain a healthy weight, the energy you consume should match the energy you expend.

If you take in more calories than you burn, those extras get stored as body fat.

But if you burn more than you consume, you create a calorie deficit.

This can lead to weight loss as your body taps into its fat stores.

Stay mindful of your energy balance.

Choose nutrient-rich foods and stay active to keep things in check.

Remember, it’s not just about the quantity of calories, but also the quality of the nutrients they provide.