How much should I be taking in?

Question
I am Female 26 years old, 6ft and 270 lbs. I am just now starting to make a major effort to get healthy and lose weight, but I have no idea how to tell whether I'm eating the correct things. I've been looking at the Nutrition labels and I don't know how many Carbs are too many, or how many Calories are too many. Is there anyway I can find out? I've been trying to find information on the Internet, and I'm not finding anything. I've been eating salads, dietary shakes, and Fruit breakfast bars. For snacks I've been eating carrots and sunflower seeds; and in 5 weeks I've lost 1-3 lbs. What am I doing wrong?

Answer
Hello Gretchen!

  Thank you for your nutrition question. It sounds like you are losing weight gradually which is actually healthier then losing it too fast.  Carrots and sunflower seeds are very good for you along with daily exercise(30-60 minutes daily) I would recommend checking out www.mypyramid.gov where you can create a healthy eating plan tailored to your calorie needs.  When you get to the website simply enter your age, gender, and activity level and it will give you a complete menu along with serving sizes.  
  For more answers to your nutrition questions also check out "Ask the Nutritionists" by George Rapitis available at www.authorhouse.com, online, and at your favorite bookstore.

-George Rapitis, Nutritionist
www.juiceblend.com  

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