How many calories should I have a day?

First you need to keep a diary showing what you already eat to estimate what your total daily calorie consumption is. say for example your intake is 2500, you would need to reduce that to say 1200 instead. your calories need to be sufficient to provide you with energy for everyday activities and to keep your organs working properly. to lose around 40lbs by august is very unhealthy and your a failure before you even begin.

set your self more reasonable targets such as a total of 14lbs by august and aim to lose around 1-2lbs a week which is a lot more healthier. keep a record of how many calories are contained in the foods you will use in your diet, that way you can add up along the way. make your own food and use fresh ingredients, dont eat out and if you do say for a special occasion have a little but not too much. keep yourself hydrated by drinking water example 1 glass before and after you eat, it will also make you feel more fuller, snack on fruit and veggies and also make sure you know how much fat is in your food, some food can contain 120 cals and say 5.6g fat, aim for 3g fat or less in each food that you eat.

exercise is very important so try to get as much in as you can even a 30 minute walk every day 3-5mph is sufficient. it will take time for your body to adjust to the changes but dont worry and stick to it.