Question 1

How many calories should I eat to lose weight?

Accepted Answer

Start with your TDEE and subtract 300–500 calories per day. A 500-calorie daily deficit usually produces about 1 lb of weight loss per week, but smaller deficits are often easier to maintain.

Question 2

Is 1,200 calories enough to lose weight?

Accepted Answer

It can create weight loss for some women, but it is also the general safety floor. Many adults should eat more than 1,200 calories and lose weight with a smaller deficit, more activity, or a longer timeline.

Question 3

How fast should I lose weight?

Accepted Answer

A sustainable pace is about 0.5–1% of body weight per week. Faster loss can work short term, but it increases hunger, fatigue and muscle loss risk.

Question 4

Why am I eating fewer calories but not losing weight?

Accepted Answer

The usual causes are calorie tracking errors, water retention, inconsistent weekends or an overestimated activity level. Compare weekly average weight for at least two weeks before changing the target.

Question 5

Should I use TDEE or BMR for weight loss calories?

Accepted Answer

Use TDEE. Weight loss calories are calculated from total daily burn, not from resting metabolism alone.

How Many Calories Should I Eat to Lose Weight?

Simple starting targets

The formula

Weight loss calories FAQ

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