How Much Food Do You Really Need Each Day?

There is no single daily food target that works for everyone. Your needs depend on your age, sex, activity level, metabolism, health status, and goals such as weight loss, maintenance, or muscle gain. As a broad guide, adult women may need about 1,600–2,400 calories daily, while adult men may need 2,000–3,000. Teenagers often need 1,800–3,200 calories because they are still growing. Older adults may need around 1,600–2,600 calories, depending on their activity and health. Calories matter, but food quality matters too. Build meals around carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits and vegetables; protein from beans, fish, eggs, lean meat or dairy; and healthy fats from nuts, seeds and avocado. Drinking enough water is also important, with roughly 2–3 litres a day as a general guide. Use these figures as a starting point, not a strict rule. A qualified health professional can help you create a plan that suits your body and lifestyle.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.