The amount of energy in food or drink is measured in calories.
Why calories matter
You need energy from calories for your body to function properly. Your body uses this energy to function properly.
To stay around the same weight, the calories your body uses must be the same as the amount of calories you eat and drink.
If you don't use the same amount of calories when you eat and drink, your body weight can change. For example:
- You are likely to gain weight if you eat and drink more calories than you consume. This is because your body stores the extra energy as fat
- There is a good chance that you will lose weight if you eat and drink fewer calories than you consume. This is because your body uses the stored fat for energy
Daily calories
Calorie information is often given in kcal, which is an abbreviation for kilocalories. It can also be expressed in kJ, which is an abbreviation of kilojoule.
As a guide:
- an average man needs 2,500 kcal per day
- an average woman needs 2,000 kcal per day
This may differ depending on your:
- the
- weight
- height
- how much exercise you do
Information:
BMI-calculator
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement that works if you are a healthy weight for your height.
Tips for calorie awareness
Doing
-
check nutrition labels on food packaging for calorie information - this will appear under the 'energy' heading
-
aim for a balanced diet – you can consume healthy calories by eating a diet that includes fruits and vegetables, starchy foods, protein and unsaturated fats
-
plan your meals – this can help you control your calorie intake
-
look for calorie information on restaurant and takeout menus
-
Keep in mind that the more energy you expend on an activity, the more calories you burn. For example, brisk walking uses more calories than walking at a moderate pace
More information
The Eatwell Guide
Find out how to eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Counting calories
Read more about calorie counting and how it can help you lose weight.
Counting calories on NHS Better Health
Healthier food exchange
Reduce sugar, salt and fat in your family's diet with these healthier swaps.
Visit the NHS Healthier Families website
Understanding food labels
Food labels can help you make healthier food choices. Read more about the color coding system and what to look out for.
Help us improve our website
Can you answer some questions about your visit today?
