A calorie deficit plan
is simply a structured approach to eating fewer calories than your body needs to maintain its current weight, so your body burns stored fat for energy.
This is the foundation of weight loss—no matter which diet you follow (keto, intermittent fasting, low-fat), they all work by creating a calorie deficit.
How It Works
Maintenance Calories:
The number of calories your body needs to maintain your current weight.
Calorie Deficit:
Eating fewer calories than that number.
Example:
- Maintenance calories: 2,200 per day
- Eat: 1,700 per day
- Deficit: 500 calories daily
What Does a Calorie Deficit Plan Include?
A well-structured plan typically has:
-
Calorie Target:
How many calories to eat per day. -
Macronutrient Balance:
How much protein, carbs, and fats to help keep you satisfied and energized. -
Meal Planning:
What meals and snacks fit within your calorie budget. -
Activity Level:
Exercise can help increase your calorie burn, allowing you to eat a bit more while still in deficit. -
Tracking:
Logging your food to stay aware of portions and calories.
Example of a Simple Calorie Deficit Plan
Maintenance calories: 2,200
Deficit target: 500 calories/day
Daily calorie goal: 1,700 calories
- Breakfast: ~400 calories
- Lunch: ~500 calories
- Dinner: ~600 calories
- Snack: ~200 calories
- Lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu, legumes)
- Whole grains (oats, brown rice)
- Lots of vegetables (fiber = fullness)
- Healthy fats in moderation (nuts, olive oil)
Important Tips:
Stay hydrated
Be patient—weight loss takes time
Aim for sustainable habits, not quick fixes