We often hear of calories when talking about the food industry. So what exactly are calories? The number of calories displayed on food labels indicates the amount of energy a particular food provides to the body in one serving.
During the day, we gain and “burn” calories. In basic terms, our bodies need calories for energy, and the calories we get from food and beverages help our bodies’ function; in other words, metabolism. Physical exercise and metabolism burn calories, and according to the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal, metabolism accounts for about 70 percent of the calories you burn every day.
Each person has a different energy need according to a variety of factors including physical activity levels. When an individual consumes more calories than their body needs, they will put on weight, and when they consumes less – you guessed it – they will lose weight.
For this challenge, we propose that you calculate the number of calories you need daily. It is important to stress the importance of eating healthy and nutritious foods.
Calorie Calculators:
Mayo Clinic
Best Health Magazine
Body and Health
To earn 50 ekopoints, use one of the calculators above and tell us how many calories you need daily. Share with the community your thoughts: do you think you’re above or below your energy needs?
