How long someone follows a 1600-calorie meal plan will depend on their long-term weight and health goals.
This article explains the benefits of a 1600-calorie meal plan and provides examples of meal plans.
It also offers tips for how to follow the guidelines if you have diabetes or other special circumstances.
Notice that each meal is a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.
Each meal plan will be different for each person.
Two common methods of meal planning for people with diabetes include carbohydrate counting and the plate method.
Carbohydrate Counting Method:This method involves tracking the grams of carbohydrates you consume in one meal.
Thetotal amount of carbohydrates you should consume per dayshould be discussed with your healthcare provider or registered dietitian.
This method is less detailed compared to tracking and adding up carbohydrates.
In addition, 1600 calories may not be appropriate or adequate for everyone.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.Dietary guidelines for Americans, 2020 - 2025.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Steps for losing weight.
Harvard Medical School.Calorie counting made easy.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.MyPlate Plan: 1600 calories, age 14+ years.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Carb counting.
