Calorie Deficit Formula:
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Calorie deficit occurs when you consume fewer calories than your body expends. It's the fundamental principle behind weight loss, as your body taps into stored energy (fat) to make up for the energy shortfall.
The calculator uses the simple formula:
Where:
Explanation: A positive result indicates a deficit (weight loss), zero indicates maintenance, and a negative result indicates surplus (weight gain).
Details: Understanding and maintaining an appropriate calorie deficit is crucial for sustainable weight loss. A deficit of 500-1000 kcal/day typically results in 1-2 pounds of weight loss per week, which is considered safe and sustainable.
Tips: Enter your TDEE (can be calculated using various online calculators) and your daily calorie intake. Both values should be in kcal/day. For accurate results, track your food intake consistently.
Q1: What is a healthy calorie deficit?
A: A deficit of 500-1000 calories per day is generally recommended, resulting in 1-2 pounds of weight loss per week.
Q2: How do I calculate my TDEE?
A: TDEE can be estimated using formulas like Mifflin-St Jeor or Harris-Benedict, multiplied by an activity factor. Many online calculators are available for this purpose.
Q3: Can calorie deficit be too large?
A: Yes, excessively large deficits can lead to muscle loss, nutrient deficiencies, metabolic adaptation, and are generally unsustainable long-term.
Q4: Should I adjust my deficit as I lose weight?
A: Yes, as you lose weight, your TDEE decreases. Regular recalculations (every 5-10 pounds lost) help maintain an appropriate deficit.
Q5: Are all calories equal for weight loss?
A: While calorie balance determines weight loss/gain, nutrient quality affects health, satiety, and body composition. Focus on nutrient-dense foods within your calorie target.