Calorie deficit

Definition:

A calorie deficit is basically a state where you burn more calories than you consume. Calories are units of energy that you get from food and drinks. Your body burns calories throughout the day to maintain basic functions and perform activities.

When you consume fewer calories than you burn, you’re in a calorie deficit. This is what leads to weight loss over time. Whereas if you consume more calories than you burn, you’re in a calorie surplus, which can lead to weight gain.

The recommended deficit for healthy weight loss is around 500 kilocalories a day — equivalent to losing around a pound a week. Individual calorie needs vary depending on your age, sex, height, weight and activity level. ^[1]