I have been thinking about how the calories in, calories burned model should be so straightforward, but it really isn’t.  Are some women’s magazines giving advice to strong, healthy women to eat 1500 calories per day?   I understand that women with certain body types could maintain their health on 1500 calories per day. A five-foot ten fashion model who generally weighs about the same amount as I do, between 115lbs and 120lbs could probably maintain this weight range by consuming about 1500 calories per day.  I am half a foot or so shorter than your average fashion model, and possess thick, muscular arms and legs thanks to years of endurance sports and weight lifting.  My waist size may be in the same range or even several inches smaller than the fashion models, because remember, I am carrying my weight in my arms and legs, not my in my breasts and tummy.  According to the BMI charts, the healthy weight range for someone who possesses my average height can weigh as few as 108lbs and still be considered healthy.  I would have to weigh as little as 107lbs to be considered underweight, even though before reaching this low weight, my hormone levels would be insufficient to maintain menstruation.  My body fat stores important hormones that help maintain my reproductive and general health. Muscle is an extremely active tissue, and much heavier than fat. Your bones have to work much harder to hold up heavy muscles, which is actually wonderful because this prevents arthritis and other diseases associated with weakening bones. When the numbers on the scale drop for me, I know that I am reducing my essential body fat and losing muscle tone.  I will be weaker and slower when I fall to the lowest possible healthy weight for my height.  Being at the lowest possible healthy weight for ones height is not a positive goal for athletes or mothers.  For models, it might not be so healthy to weigh so little either, but modeling is usually not a career for more than a few years. As mothers, we need to consider our activity level before making a significant calorie reduction. I know that I am constantly burning through the calories that I consume before, during and after work. Please consider lifting heavier dumbbells before lightening your plates! Your bones and your children will thank you for this.