How many calories must be in a negative energy balance to lose one pound per week?

To lose one pound of body weight, it is established that a person must achieve a negative energy balance of approximately 3,500 calories. This figure is derived from the basic principle of caloric deficit, where the number of calories burned must exceed the number of calories consumed. When the energy expenditure surpasses the energy intake by 3,500 calories over the course of a week, this deficit results in the loss of one pound of body weight.

This understanding is grounded in research surrounding weight management and energy balance, making it a critical concept in both health and physical education. Thus, achieving a weekly deficit of 3,500 calories can be approached through dietary changes, increased physical activity, or a combination of both methods to facilitate weight loss effectively.