Caloric Deficit
Consuming fewer calories than your body burns, the foundation of weight loss.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
A caloric deficit means you are eating fewer calories than your body uses. This forces your body to burn stored fat for energy. It is the basic science behind all weight loss.
Medical
Clinical Definition
A caloric deficit of 500-1000 kcal/day produces weight loss of 0.5-1 kg/week. Sustainable deficits preserve lean body mass and avoid metabolic adaptation.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Understanding caloric deficit helps patients avoid fad diets and focus on sustainable eating patterns. Medical supervision ensures nutritional adequacy during calorie restriction.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.