5. Rethinking Calories: Challenging Diet Myths With Science

Baby, Let's Talk!

In this episode we will cover the following topics:

• Definition of Calories: Explaining calories as units of energy, differentiating between the scientific and dietary contexts.
• Caloric Needs and Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): Discussing the body’s minimum caloric needs for basic functions like breathing and circulating blood.
• Calories In vs. Calories Out Model: Why this model doesn’t work in reality and exploring why it can lead to adverse health and fitness outcomes.
• Complications of Calorie Restriction: How calorie restriction can mess up our metabolism, hormonal health, etc.
• Importance of Food Quality Over Quantity: Why food quality is more important than counting calories.
• Macronutrient Breakdown: How different macros contribute to calorie intake and their roles in the body.
• Calculating BMR and Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE): How to calculate these metrics and their relevance to overall health and fitness goals.
• Adjusting Diet Based on Health Goals: Tailoring caloric and macronutrient intake based on individual health needs and fitness goals.
• Real-life Application: How to apply these concepts in practical diet planning.

This episode sets the stage for a deeper understanding of how our body's energy dynamics affect our overall health, and how we can use that understanding to our advantage.

My name is Ragnheiður (you can call me Ragna), and I'm your host - a medical doctor, a certified pre-/postnatal trainer, and most importantly, a mom of four and a wife. - This podcast is born from my dedication to uncovering the truths about nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle that genuinely benefit our bodies. We'll explore how to establish a lasting, healthy lifestyle that fits the reality of motherhood, how to enjoy an active, pain-free pregnancy, and how to navigate postpartum recovery to regain your fitness in a wholesome way. Join me as we debunk myths and discover the paths to excess energy, body confidence, and loving the life you live as a mom.

(If you want to check out any studies I reference, head on to my website: www.babyletsmove.com)

[Disclaimer: All health and nutritional information on this podcast should not take place of medical or professional advice. Although I am a medical doctor, I am not your healthcare provider. This episode is for informational and educational purposes only and should not substitute the advice from your healthcare professional. Always consult with your physician / healthcare provider prior to making any exercise, dietary, medical, or lifestyle decisions. Those who do not seek counsel from the appropriate healthcare provider assume the liability of any injury / adverse events which may occur. Do not follow the advice in this episode if you do not wish to be bound by this disclaimer.]