Maintenance Calories
Definition
Maintenance calories refer to the number of calories you need to consume daily to maintain your current weight, without gaining or losing any weight.
Scientific / Technical Definition
Maintenance calories represent the energy expenditure required to support basal metabolic rate (BMR), physical activities, and thermic effect of food (TEF) such that energy intake is equal to energy expended. This results in energy balance, where the body neither gains nor loses tissues, maintaining a stable body weight.
Benefits
- Helps to maintain a stable body weight.
- Prevents unintended weight gain or loss.
- Supports body functions at an optimal level.
Examples
- A person with a desk job might have a maintenance calorie need of 2,000 calories.
- An athlete undergoing intense training might have a maintenance calorie need of 3,500 calories.
Additional Information
- Importance: Understanding maintenance calories is crucial for individuals seeking to manage their weight effectively by aligning caloric intake with caloric needs.
References
Last updated: 10/26/2024