Caloric Deficit
A caloric deficit means your body uses more energy than you consume. This is the condition required for fat loss over time.
A caloric deficit forces the body to use stored energy to cover the gap between intake and demand. This is the only way fat loss occurs over time. The rate of progress depends on how consistent the deficit is across days and weeks. Small, steady deficits are easier to maintain and often lead to more stable results.
Related Topics
Low-Carbohydrate Diet
How a low-carbohydrate diet can support weight loss when used correctly — without strict keto rules. What changes, what to watch for, and where it fits inside a deficit.
Weight Loss
Weight loss is simple to describe and harder to do. This page covers what actually drives it, why progress is uneven, and how calorie deficit, fasting, and walking fit together.
Related glossary terms
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are a macronutrient used by the body as a primary source of quick energy.
Fat
Fat is a macronutrient that provides a concentrated source of energy at 9 calories per gram.
Fat Oxidation
Fat oxidation is the process of breaking down fat to produce energy.
Glycogen
Glycogen is stored carbohydrate found in muscles and liver that the body uses for energy.
Glycogen Depletion
Glycogen depletion is the process of using up stored carbohydrates in the body.
Glycogen Refill
Restoring carbohydrate stores after eating.
Insulin Response
The body's hormonal reaction to food intake, affecting storage and water balance.
Ketosis
Ketosis is a metabolic state where the body uses fat as its primary energy source due to low carbohydrate availability.