Ideal Calorie Calculator for Women

(This calculator is meant to be an estimate only. Actual calories needed to maintain weight may vary based on muscle mass, activity and a variety of other factors such as illness, pregnancy, etc.)

By consuming these calories on an average daily basis, you should maintain your weight. However, if you are looking to lose weight, here are some tips:

Most health professionals recommend slow weight loss as the safest and most effective approach. A sensible weight-loss program allows you to lose weight gradually -- about one-half to one pound per week. Gradual weight loss promotes long-term loss of body fat, not just water weight that can be quickly regained.

To lose one pound, a person must burn 3,500 calories more than are consumed (500 calories per day over the course of a week). For example, reducing calories by 300 per day and increasing daily activity to burn off an additional 200 calories should result in a weight loss of one pound per week.

Here is an example of how the calculator can help you. If your daily calorie needs were calculated as 2500 calories and you desire to lose weight, you could:

1. Consume 2200 calories. (That's 300 calories less than this example diet), and
2. Burn 200 calories through activity, to result in a 2000-calorie diet! (Be sure to use the Get Moving Calculator to determine the different ways that you can burn 200 calories)!