Daily Calorie Recommendations
Back in 2020, the USDA released updated recommended dietary guidelines (valid 2020-2025). I am focusing on the daily caloric intake here; however, there is a lot of information in the release available here (PDF, 31MB).
The below table shows the recommended daily calorie intake based on gender, age and activity level. This is just an estimate based on a generally healthy individual within the noted criteria. This is essentially for maintaining weight. In order to lose you’d generally need to consume in a caloric deficit (burning more than you’re consuming). It is best to determine your recommended intake with your doctor, nutritionist or other health professional.
Descriptions for the levels of activity (sedentary, moderately active and active) can be found below the table.
Sedentary means a lifestyle that includes only the physical activity of independent living.
Moderately Active means a lifestyle that includes physical activity equivalent to walking about 1.5 to 3 miles per day at 3 to 4 miles per hour, in addition to the activities of independent living.
Active means a lifestyle that includes physical activity equivalent to walking more than 3 miles per day at
3 to 4 miles per hour, in addition to the activities of independent living.