Average Calorie & Carbohydrate
Needs for Adults
Carbohydrates are low in
calories (1 gram = 3.75 calories) and are a great source of energy. Main
stream diet nutritionists advise that about 50 percent of our total calories
should come from carbs. However it is important to chose most of your
carb-calories from lower glycemic index food. Lower glycemic index foods
are more slowly absorbed by the body and help to maintain stable blood
sugar levels. Examples of low GI foods are: beans, peas, lentils, nuts,
seeds, whole wheat bread, oats, barley, pasta, Basmati rice, apples, avocados,
cherries, grapefruit, grapes, olives, oranges, peaches, corn. See also
Glycemic Index
Women (age 19-50)
- 1940 calories and 258g carbs per day.
Women (age 51-59) - 1900 calories and 253g carbs per day.
Men (age 19-59) -
2550 calories and 340g carbs per day.
Notes:
Carbs calculated at 50 percent of calorie intake.
Source:
Estimated average requirements, UK Dept of Health
For calorie details of 2500
Foods, see Calories
in Foods
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