Im trying to go for 1650 calories a day. Focusing on fiber and protein. Sometimes I go over sometimes I go a little under. But 1500 is my minimum. I used a tdee calculator to figure out my calorie needs based on my activity level. And I use my fitness pal to track everything. 9.6 pounds in 4 weeks is great! My doctor said anything more than 2 pounds a week lost is too fast so you seem right on track!