1. What is Daily Calorie Intake for Weight Loss?

This calculator estimates the daily calorie intake needed for women to achieve weight loss (approximately 1 pound per week) based on their Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and activity level.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( BMR \) — Basal Metabolic Rate (kcal/day)
• \( activity\_factor \) — Multiplier based on activity level
• 500 — Calorie deficit for ~1 pound weight loss per week

Explanation: The formula first calculates your maintenance calories (BMR × activity factor) then subtracts 500 kcal to create a deficit for weight loss.

3. Importance of Calorie Deficit

Details: A 500 kcal daily deficit typically results in about 1 pound (0.45 kg) of weight loss per week, which is considered a safe and sustainable rate.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your BMR (use a BMR calculator if unknown) and select your activity level. For accurate results, be honest about your activity level.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why subtract 500 calories?
A: A 500 kcal daily deficit creates ~3500 kcal weekly deficit, which equals about 1 pound of fat loss (1 pound ≈ 3500 kcal).

Q2: Is this calculator only for women?
A: While designed for women, men can use the same formula but may need slightly different deficit amounts.

Q3: What if I want to lose weight faster?
A: We don't recommend deficits larger than 500-750 kcal/day without medical supervision as it can lead to muscle loss and metabolic slowdown.

Q4: How do I calculate my BMR?
A: Use the Mifflin-St Jeor equation: BMR = (10 × weight in kg) + (6.25 × height in cm) - (5 × age in years) - 161

Q5: Should I adjust my calories as I lose weight?
A: Yes, recalculate periodically as your BMR decreases with weight loss.