Weight Maintenance

Definition

Weight maintenance refers to the process of keeping your weight stable over time by balancing the calories you consume with the calories you burn.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Weight maintenance is a state where energy intake through food consumption is equal to the energy expended by the body through basal metabolic rate and physical activity. It involves a balance between caloric intake and expenditure, ensuring no net gain or loss in body mass.

Benefits

• Helps in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• Supports overall metabolic health.
• Promotes stable energy levels throughout the day.
• Contributes to mental well-being by reducing stress related to weight fluctuations.

Examples

• Maintaining a daily caloric intake that matches your Basal Metabolic Rate and activity level.
• Tracking both dietary intake and physical activity to ensure equilibrium.
• Using a caloric needs calculator to determine daily caloric requirements for stability.

Additional Information

• Importance: Weight maintenance is crucial for preventing obesity, supporting a healthy lifestyle, and ensuring that the body's systems function optimally.

Related Terms

• Caloric Intake
• Basal Metabolic Rate
• Energy Balance
• Weight Loss
• Weight Gain

References

• Energy Balance and Weight Management: Beyond Calories In - Calories Out
• Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Weight Management