What is the daily caloric requirement?

From the Guidelines

The daily caloric requirement is 1,200 to 1,500 kcal/d for women and 1,500 to 1,800 kcal/d for men.

Caloric Requirements

• The estimated daily caloric requirements are based on the individual's body weight and physical activity levels 1.
• These caloric ranges are recommended for weight loss, with an energy deficit of 500 kcal/d or 30% energy deficit 1.
• The choice of calorie-restricted diet can be individualized to the patient's preferences and health status, with referral to a nutrition professional recommended for specialized diets 1.
• Very-low-calorie diets (<800 kcal/d) should be used only in limited circumstances in a medical care setting with medical supervision and a high-intensity lifestyle intervention 1.
• Reducing dietary intake to 1,200-1,500 calories per day for women and 1,500-1,800 calories per day for men can help achieve weight loss, in combination with increased physical activity, such as 10,000 steps or more per day 1.

From the Research

Daily Caloric Requirements

The daily caloric requirement varies depending on factors such as age, sex, weight, and physical activity level.

• According to 2, most respondents accurately reported typical daily calorie needs for a person of their sex, age group, and physical activity level.
• The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend creating an energy deficit of at least 500 kcal a day to facilitate weight loss, as stated in 3.
• A study in 4 found that only 24% of participants correctly stated their recommended daily calorie intake, with the majority underestimating it.

Factors Influencing Caloric Requirements

Several factors influence an individual's daily caloric requirements, including:

• Age: Caloric needs change as people age, with older adults generally requiring fewer calories than younger adults.
• Sex: Men and women have different caloric needs, with men generally requiring more calories than women.
• Weight: Caloric needs are also influenced by an individual's weight, with heavier individuals requiring more calories than lighter individuals.
• Physical activity level: Individuals who are more physically active require more calories than those who are sedentary, as noted in 5.

Caloric Intake for Weight Loss

For individuals trying to lose weight, a daily caloric intake of 800 to 1500 kcal/d is often recommended, as stated in 6.

• Creating a consistent energy deficit of at least 500 kcal per day can lead to significant weight loss, as found in 3.
• Self-monitoring energy intake and expenditure can also help individuals achieve their weight loss goals, as noted in 3 and 4.