http://www.room42.com/nutrition/basal.shtml

A little better understanding of basal metabolism...and once you get your #'s do realize that on this diet your %'s of protein/fat/carbs will be different, but this might help to better understand of the amount of calories you should be getting for consistant weight loss...I am trying this right now...my basal is around 1800 so if i deduct 500 cal. then I should shoot for 1300 calories a day... I hope this works... I will keep track of my progress to see if this has any substance.

However if you have a lower basal rate, do not go lower than 1200 calories ever!