Your GLP-1 Bestie

How To Calculate Your Energy Needs on a GLP-1 From a Registered Dietitian

Gianna Beasley

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0:00 | 21:25

In this episode, we are breaking down how to calculate your energy needs and why knowing this number matters for your metabolism, weight loss goals, and long-term health.

Gianna explains why eating less and less is not always the answer, how chronic under-eating can impact your metabolism, and why many women may need to spend time eating at maintenance before trying to diet again. She also walks through the basics of the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, activity levels, maintenance calories, and why personalized support from a dietitian can be helpful if you have medical conditions, medications, or a history of under-eating.

This episode is a practical “how-to” guide for anyone who wants to better understand their calorie needs, avoid under-eating, and support their body in a realistic and sustainable way.


In This Episode, We Cover:

  • What energy needs and maintenance calories actually mean
  • Why eating less is not always the answer for weight loss
  • How your metabolism adapts when you consistently under-eat
  • Why under-eating can make weight loss harder over time
  • What reverse dieting is and when it may be needed (briefly)
  • Why you should avoid cutting calories too aggressively
  • How to use the Mifflin-St Jeor equation to estimate energy needs
  • The difference between resting metabolic rate and total daily energy needs
  • How activity level impacts your daily calorie needs
  • Why medical conditions and medications can change your nutrition needs
  • When to work with a dietitian for personalized calorie and macro targets

Reminders From This Episode:

Your body’s main job is to keep you alive — and your metabolism will adapt when it is not properly fueled.

Under-eating may feel like the “right” thing to do for weight loss, but it can backfire and make your health journey harder long-term.

Knowing your energy needs is one of the most responsible ways to support your metabolism, fuel your body, and make sustainable progress.

💖 WAYS TO WORK WITH ME

If you’re tired of guessing what to eat, overwhelmed by conflicting advice, or trying to protect your muscle while losing weight…

✨ Join The GLP-1 Circle — my membership for support, strategy, and community

✨ Apply for 1:1 Coaching for high touch, personalized nutrition and fitness guidance aka the ultimate bestie experience

Book a one time consult with me here (Use code PODCAST for a discount)

FREE: Labs to Request Annually 

Connect with Me:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/dietitian.gianna/

Website: https://www.giannabeasley.com/