Calories and Weight Loss

One pound of body weight is equivalent to 3500 calories.

So in order to lose one pound of weight, we need to create a calorie-deficit of 3500 calories.

We can do this by increasing our calorie expenditure, by reducing our calorie intake, or (best) by a combination of both.

Example

• Suppose you need 2000 calories a day, in order to maintain your present weight.

• To lose one pound a week, you need to cut your daily calorie intake to 1500 calories. 

• Over 7 days, this adds up to 3500 calories.

• The same result can be achieved by increasing your exercise by 200 calories/day, and reducing your calorie-intake by 300 calories/day. 

• That said, a combination of calorie-reduction and increased exercise makes weight loss easier to sustain.