How many calories are equivalent to 1 pound of body weight?

The concept that 1 pound of body weight is approximately equivalent to 3,500 calories is well-established in the field of nutrition and weight management. This figure originates from research indicating that a caloric deficit of about 3,500 calories can lead to a loss of approximately one pound of body fat.

When individuals aim to lose weight, they can create this deficit through a combination of reducing caloric intake and increasing physical activity. Therefore, understanding that 3,500 calories corresponds to a pound helps in planning effective weight-loss strategies. This knowledge assists health professionals in providing guidance on safe and sustainable weight loss or management programs.

The other options—2,500, 4,000, and 5,000 calories—do not reflect the established research. They underestimate or overestimate the caloric equivalent of weight loss and can lead to misconceptions in dietary planning or weight loss efforts. Thus, 3,500 calories remains the most widely recognized standard linked to the loss of one pound of body weight.