Calories as a Measure of Food Energy

Calories are a measure of the potential food energy that can be absorbed and utilized by the body. In order to stay at the same body weight, an individual must balance the amount of energy in the food that is eaten with the amount of energy that is used by the body. When the calorie intake exceeds the energy expenditure, a person's weight will increase. Based on the user's profile, Mealformation estimates the number of calories required to sustain the user's current body weight, by calculating the estimated energy expenditure.

To lose weight, your calorie intake would have to be reduced to a level below your energy expenditure. Since there are approximately 3500 calories in one pound of fat, you would need to lower your calorie intake by about 500 calories per day to lose one pound a week. As an alternative, you could raise your physical activity level to burn additional calories. Physical activity is an important way to utilize food energy.

The calorie estimate from your personal profile is based on your current weight. Accordingly, if you are overweight the calorie estimate will be somewhat high and if you are underweight the calorie estimate will be somewhat low. People with large bodies require proportionately more energy for activities than people with small bodies.

It is important to know that reducing your calories below certain levels might make it impossible to meet your daily nutritional needs, thereby compromising your health. You should balance the desire to reduce your calories with a healthy menu plan. In addition be aware that the calculated calorie value is only an estimate to be used as a guideline. So before starting any diet plan, you should consult your physician so that your individual circumstances can be taken into consideration.

for more information regarding nutrition and health visit the following web sites:
Food and Drug Administration | U.S. Department of Agriculture | American Heart Association