Hi - I'm supposed to be eating 10 - 12 times my weight in calories, which I am doing. I am going to begin exercising (1 hour per day on the treadmill) which will burn off 400 calories, should I increase my food consumption each day - seems like it would be defeating the purpose??? I need to get my metobolism up since I seem to be stalled.

Thank you.

There are a few things you can do to raise your metabolism. Eating more frequent smaller meals is one. By providing your body with a continuous supply of calories (especially protein) it will not have to scavange your body for them when they are needed. (The most abundant supply of amino acids in your body are found in your muscles - scavanged muscles are something you want to avoid at all costs). Eating more often will keep blood sugars stabilized and keep insulin from spiking. All good things. If you plan your meals to sustain you for 3 hours instead of 6 you'll find you eat the same amount throughout the day, just less at each sitting.

Exercising will also increase metabolism - in particular weight lifting will help. When you build muscle you raise your resting metabolism. Muscle is always looking for fuel and it's favoured source is your body fat.

If you are eating enough to sustain your BMR (the 10 - 12 times your body weight) then increasing calories will be something you can decide for yourself. You may find yourself hungrier - because of muscle growth. Follow the Dr.'s advice - if you are hungry EAT. You might want to increase protein intake - just to be certain that you are getting enough to nourish the muscle you are trying to grow.

Nat