09/09/2026
I’ve been so excited to start increasing my calories after a long 3 months in a deficit.
But I’ve also gotten a lot of questions about reverse dieting, and more people should know about it because it’s changed my life.
As a 5’0 female I’ve always heard “petite women can only eat 1200 calories.” But the truth is that the metabolism is flexible. The more active you are and the more muscle you have, the more fuel you need to maintain your weight.
So my next physique project is to get my maintenance back up to about 2300-2500 calories. I’ve been here a few times in the past, and this is a really comfortable place for me to be able to feel good in the gym, have treats and just feel like a normal person.
Before this cut I was maintaining around 2100 calories and I’m estimating that my current maintenance is around 1900. I’m taking this first full week to gradually work back to 1900.
It isn’t necessary, so why am I going so slow?
First, it’s personally difficult for me to stomach a huge increase in food quickly.
Two, mentally it can be difficult to plan out your day. I am very routine based and this gives me time to gradually adjust.
Third, I have a photoshoot with the incredible Selina Sims | Women’s Photographer next week so while I don’t want to look depleted, I still want to look lean 💪🏼
But if you’re a petite girlie who wants to eat more, follow along because I want us all to be FED!
Xoxo,
Janey