Is an 800-calorie a day diet too low in calories to be healthy?

Question

My co-worker at the office is eating only 800 calories. He is in his 40's, moderately active. He is not seeing a doctor. I am concerned because that sounds like a very low calorie plan.

Answer 1

that is too low you're right to be concerned.
check out myfoodpyramid.gov I think it can give you his ideal calorie count. I think men depending on body build should be on a 1500 calorie diet if they're wanting to lose weight.

Answer 2

I'm no doctor but, that does seem a little low. On most all foodstuffs there is a Recommended Daily Allowance chart. I'm sure you know the chart with the nutritional values in percentages? That chart is based on a 2000 calorie a day intake.

Answer 3

Its not enough calories, hopefully he is getting most of his 800 calories from veggies and fruit or he is going to be deficient in a lot of nutrients.

Answer 4

He needs at least another 200 calories in order to effectly lose weight the healthy way.

Answer 5

It really depends on your body's needs. If you are very active then it's much to small of an amount, but if you don't do much it could suit you (depending on your body type). As long as you're not starving it's fine. But seeing as how he's active it could be a problem. But like I said, if he isn't starving then maybe he's fine.

Answer 6

your co-worker needs 1200 calories in order for his body to function w/o any exercise

Answer 7

Yes, it's too low generally and excessively low for a male.

If he continues, he will end up losing a lot of lean muscle mass and that will raise his body fat percentage. He sounsd like his is 'Manorexic'.

HTH : )

Answer 8

VEry low...yes...he will eventually collapse, and when he starts eating again...he will gain the weight back quickly.

Answer 9

Yes, is he built like a pencil? If not he is probably lying about his diet.

Answer 10

minimum suggested is at LEAST 1000 cals a day