But I wonder, the emphasis of calories, is a bit nuance, anyway, that seems to be the safest way to measure food output.
However, that doesn't work as much here in Nigeria. Nigerians are all about eating and not getting hungry, and not meeting a calorie benchmark. So, this means that people are going to eat based on their hunger levels, and not based on calorie needs.
Another important point is that, the recommended calorie intake is 2000 just for females, and for males its about 2500. I highly suggest that your analysis should factor that in,
But in Nigeria here, we don't follow universal principles, because we operate and live in a less than ideal situation.
For example, considering how hot it is over here, energy demand is higher for an average Nigerian which makes the calories standard not the best for us. But since calories is the best way to talk about food, here is what I found:
The estimate used for Nigeria is slightly lower at 2251 calories per day and is a weighted average of the minimum caloric intake for women (2117), men (2900) and children (783-2958, depending on age). Source
Additionally, as someone pointed out already, no one eats beans, rice, soya bean, flower, or anything in exclusion. They are usually prepared to make it more enriching or at least more palatable. So, maybe, the next post should factor this in as well.
A hundred more calorie demand you know may tilt the balance. I think it's best to be very accurate with the analysis. Nonetheless, I love all the work and effort you've been putting in.
I think my post was poorly understood. I really hope I can clear up the confusion on my next post. However, I'm far from home and I can't post what I really want to right now. I will be posting some pictures from my trip if you want to see my home province in Canada though.
As for the 2000 calorie benchmark. That is what the average Canadian burns. We live a much more sedentary life here. I'm certain the average Nigerian burns more because I'm almost certain they work harder. As for the hot temperature...cold weather burns even more calories but that's a whole different topic.
As for eating to keep hunger away that again is a whole topic in itself. However, 2000 calories will give a person enough energy to get through the day IF they are sedentary. Hard workers will obviously need more. 2000 calories of oil and carbs will leave a person hungry all day long and when they eat more they will get fat (just look at the Average American or Canadian). 2000 calories (or so) with a fair amount of protein and fiber will make people feel much more satiated (no more hungry stomach) and keep them from getting fat.
As for a 100 calorie deficit...the body can adjust to a small amount like that....just ask anyone who needs to be a diet. However, you are right the numbers MUST be adjusted to individual activity levels, age, sex, and so on.
As for eating each item in exclusion..well, that would be a pretty awful diet and that wasn't the point. Typically people use staples as the base of their meal. Then they liven it up with spices, vegetables, fruits and so on. Of course a mix of all those staples keeps things interesting. However, I chose those staples because they are some of the most versatile and easily found items that are ubiquitous (found everywhere).
Thanks for the reply and yes, there is far more to this topic than one post could ever capture. I just hope you'll keep reading until I can get this finished. If not I'll be writing to no audience but I expect t finish this someday.
Lol! Thanks for the detailed feedback. I got somethings wrong as well at some point.
Thanks for working hard at this. I really appreciate. I just discovered you own this community "Be Frugal Not Stingy". If you need some hands, I'd would be willing to help.
I'll be sharing my feedback directly on there soon. Was researching on the rate of inflation of those staple foods that's why it's taking longer than usual, plus I am very busy offline.
Thanks for your kind reply as always!
I will never turn down an offer of help. However, I need so much help and can offer so little in return. If you read some of my posts, tell me when I'm wrong, and give a thank you when I'm right that would so awesome! Of course the more information I have about the prices of things the better posts I can make about how to live frugally...which is a topic that's important to me. The other half though is to use the financial freedom found by frugal living to help others and not be stingy!
My whole reason to be frugal on every expense is to be generous when helping others. Hopefully I can write about that someday.
As for starting my own community. My food information was too boring for Foodies Bee Hive. My shopping information was too specific for Market Friday. My posts just didn't seem to fit anywhere else.
Thank you for reading. I appreciate it so much. Knowing my posts have even a small audience make it worthwhile.
You're welcome! I'll be as supportive as I can!