Calories count By Joni Hyde of WorkoutsForWomen.com Yes, it does matter how many calories you consume in a day and over the course of a week. Here's why ... It's basic math. Your body needs to store 3500 calories more than it uses over a period of time, for you to gain 1 pound. Likewise, if you use 3500 calories more than you take in, you will lose 1 pound. Here is a quick formula to help you determine how many calories per pound you need to intake to maintain your current body weight, lose weight or gain weight. Inactive Moderate Activity Heavy Activity # of calories per lb. 10 12 14 Example: Toni weighs 120 and is moderately active. To figure how many calories she needs to consume each day to maintain her current weight, you would figure: 120 (her weight in lbs) x 12 (moderate activity calories) ------- 1440 calories per day to maintain her weight Use this formula to figure calories needed for weight loss, weight maintenance and weight gain. The most effective way to lose weight: Do not lower caloric intake less than 1200 per day or your metabolism may become so slow that your body will work harder to store calories. Expend 300 - 500 calories a day through exercise. Decrease caloric intake nor more than 500 - 750 calories below what is necessary to maintain your current weight, then adjust that number as you lose weight. A healthy weight loss is 2 pounds a week ... No more! For a complete home exercise program visit WorkoutsForWomen.com. With online audio/video instructions and email consultations, members enjoy the benefits of having a personal trainer at their fingertips and on their own schedule.