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Updated On Aug 2024
Updated On Aug 2024

What Is The 7-Day Calorie Deficit Diet Plan For Weight Loss?

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Calorie Deficit Diet Plan

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Anjali Jaiswal

Anjali is pursuing her Master in Management of Business Administration from  Amity University.

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Varleen Kaur

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The calorie deficit diet plan is a simple weight loss method. It’s all about consuming fewer calories than your body uses. 

Think of it like this: if you eat less than your body needs, you’ll lose those extra pounds. You can create a calorie deficit by eating less or moving more, or even better, by doing both. 

Sometimes, gaining weight is because you eat too much and don’t move enough. The calorie deficit diet helps with this by focusing on eating less and moving more. But what does “eating less” really mean?

In this blog, we will discuss the principles of creating a calorie deficit. What happens to your body in a calorie deficit? As well as we give you a 7-day calorie diet plan.

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What Is A Calorie Deficit Diet?

 A calorie deficit diet is a simple way to lose weight where we reduce per day or week calorie intake than required to maintain one current weight. This calorie reduction from our diet can lead to weight loss faster and you can easily achieve your weight loss goals. 

It is important to consume fewer calories if you wish to burn fat. This is the phenomenon of a calorie deficit diet. You can adjust calorie intake regularly by reducing or increasing calories in your diet. 

Lesser calories will lead to weight loss whereas if you increase calories in your diet it will help you to gain weight. Nutritionists as well as dietitians also recommend consuming fewer calories if you want to achieve your weight loss goals.

Let’s find out how to make a calorie deficit diet plan also we will discuss the benefits of a calorie-deficit diet for weight loss. 

Does Calorie Deficit Diet Help To Lose Weight?

To lose weight, you need to eat and drink fewer calories than you burn. That’s called a calorie deficit. It means eating less than what your body uses in a day. This method relies on your body using stored fat for energy, leading to weight loss. 

Your calorie deficit is the difference between the calories you burn and the calories you eat. To lose weight, you want to create a gap, like a little space between the two.

According to the CDC, If you’re aiming for 1-2 pounds of weight loss per week, you might need a daily calorie deficit of about 500 calories. But remember, everyone is different – age, activity level, and other factors play a role.

The key is to pick nutritious foods such as vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains while steering clear of high-calorie, less-healthy options. Adding regular exercise boosts this weight-loss plan for overall health.

Principles Of Creating A Calorie Deficit Diet 

When you are trying to lose weight in a healthy way by eating fewer calories, remember these important points:

  1. Know About the calorie deficit diet plan: Calories are like the energy in the food we eat. Our body uses this energy for everything it does. To lose weight, we need to eat a bit less energy than our body uses.

NCBI states that consuming fewer calories than your body needs creates a calorie deficit which leads to weight loss.

  1. Find Out Your Needs: Your body needs a certain amount of energy even when you’re not doing much. This depends on things like your age, whether you’re a boy or girl, how much you weigh, and how active you are.
  1. Set A Goal You Can Reach: Decide on a goal for losing weight, like a little bit each week. A good aim is to eat a bit less every day, adding up to around 500-1000 calories per day.
  1. Eat Good Foods: Choose foods that have lots of good stuff like vitamins and fiber. Go for things like lean meats, fruits, veggies, and whole grains.
  1. Avoid Some Foods: Stay away from foods and drinks with lots of added sugars and unhealthy fats. They have too many calories and not enough good stuff.
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  1. Eat A Mix of Foods: Make sure you get some of everything – protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Protein is important to keep your muscles strong, especially when losing weight.
  1. Move Your Body: Exercise helps burn more calories, which is good for losing weight. Doing both – eating right and moving around – is the best way to stay healthy.
  1. Keep an Eye On Things: Pay attention to what you eat and how much you move. If things need to change, make small adjustments as you go along.

Remember, making a calorie deficit diet plan is about finding a balance that works for you. It’s not just about eating less but making smart choices to help you feel good and stay healthy.

Why Do Calories Matter?

Calories are like the energy in the food we eat. Our bodies need this energy for everything we do – from walking to thinking. If we eat too many calories, our bodies store the extra fat, and we gain weight. 

On the other hand, if we eat fewer calories than our bodies use, we lose weight because our bodies start using stored fat for energy.

For Example: Imagine your body as a machine that needs fuel to run. Calories are like fuel. If you eat more fuel (calories) than your body uses, it stores the extra fat. But if you eat less fuel than your body needs, it starts using stored fat for energy.

Now, every food has a number that tells us how much fuel (calories) it gives. We call this the “Calorie content.” Foods like veggies and lean meat have fewer calories, like a low-fuel snack. 

But things like french fries and candy, with more fat and sugar, have more calories – like high-fuel treats. So, keeping an eye on a calorie deficit diet plan helps us maintain a healthy weight and stay fit.

How To Calculate Calorie Deficit?

A calorie deficit diet is when you eat fewer calories than your body needs, mainly to lose weight. But figuring out how much less to eat might sound confusing. Let’s understand:

1. Know Your Daily Energy Needs: Figure out how many calories your body uses in a day. This is called Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) and depends on your age, activity level, and other factors.

2. Set A Target: Decide on your weight loss goal. A common aim is to lose 1 to 2 pounds per week.

3. Create A Deficit: To lose one pound, you generally need to eat 500 calories less than your TDEE each day. For two pounds, aim for 1000 calories less daily.

4. Let’s Calculate: If your TDEE is 2000 calories, and you aim for a 500-calorie deficit, your daily goal is 1500 calories. 

This calorie deficit calculator allows you to calculate your calories as well.

Remember, the idea is to find a deficit that helps you lose weight at a steady pace while keeping it practical and healthy for your body.

How Does A Calorie Deficit Diet Work?

A calorie deficit diet plan helps you lose weight by playing with the energy balance in your body. Here’s how it works:

  • Check Your Daily Energy Needs: First, we figure out how many calories your body uses every day. This includes the energy it needs when you’re not doing anything, plus the energy used for activities and digesting food.
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  • Create A Shortage: Now, you eat less than the total calories your body uses. This creates a “calorie deficit” – your body doesn’t get enough energy from food, so it starts using stored fat to get what it needs.
  • Lose Weight Gradually: A deficit of around 500 calories per day usually leads to losing about 0.5 kg (1 lb) each week. This is a safe and steady rate.
  • Eat A Balanced Diet: Even when eating less, it’s important to get a mix of nutrients from proteins, carbs, fats, vitamins, and minerals to stay healthy.
  • Change How You Eat: You might need to learn new habits like eating the right portion sizes, being mindful about what you eat, and making healthier food choices.
  • Move Your Body: Exercise can help burn more calories, making your deficit even bigger. It’s also good for your muscles, metabolism, and overall health.
  • Check and Adjust: Keep an eye on what you eat and how your weight changes. Adjust your plan if needed because as you lose weight, your body may need fewer calories.
  • Keep It Sustainable: For long-term success, choose a calorie deficit plan that you can stick to. Gradual changes that fit your life are often the key to making it work in the long run.

A Calorie Deficit Diet Plan 

Following a great fat loss diet plan is a great way to get started with a calorie deficit diet. It will give you more idea of what to add and what to exclude from your diet.

Day 1
Meal 1Poha With Veggies And Peanuts
Meal 2A Small Bowl Of Fruits
Meal 3Roti With Dal, Vegetable Curry, Salad
Meal 4Sprout Salad
Meal 5Green Tea With Nuts
Meal 6Grilled Chicken/Paneer With Quinoa/Rice
Meal 7Greek yogurt With Chia Seeds
Meal 8Warm Milk With Turmeric
Day 2
Meal 1Upma With Vegetables
Meal 2Handful Of Nuts
Meal 3Brown Rice With Fish Curry, Cucumber Salad
Meal 4Carrot Sticks With Hummus
Meal 5Herbal Tea With Almonds
Meal 6Lentil Soup With Whole Wheat Bread
Meal 7Cottage Cheese With Fruit
Meal 8Herbal Tea With Nuts
Day 3
Meal 1Vegetable Oats Porridge
Meal 2Yogurt With Berries
Meal 3Chapati With Chickpea Curry, Mixed Salad
Meal 4Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Meal 5Coconut Water
Meal 6Stir-Fried Tofu With Broccoli And Rice
Meal 7Fruit Salad With Yogurt
Meal 8Warm Milk With Honey
Day 4
Meal 1Moong Dal Chilla With Mint Chutney
Meal 2Banana Smoothie
Meal 3Quinoa Salad With Tofu, Cucumber Slices
Meal 4Roasted Chickpeas
Meal 5Green Smoothie
Meal 6Vegetable Stir-Fry With Noodles
Meal 7Greek Yogurt With Honey
Meal 8Herbal Tea With Nuts
Day 5
Meal 1Vegetable Dalia
Meal 2Sprouts Salad
Meal 3Roti With Spinach Dal, Cucumber Raita
Meal 4Bell Pepper Strips With Hummus
Meal 5Masala Chai With Nuts
Meal 6Baked Fish With Stir-Fried Vegetables
Meal 7Cottage Cheese With Fruit
Meal 8Warm Milk With Cinnamon
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Day 6
Meal 1Ragi Dosa With Coconut Chutney
Meal 2Apple Slices With Peanut Butter
Meal 3Barley Khichdi With Mixed Vegetable Curry
Meal 4Celery Sticks With Almond Butter
Meal 5Iced Lemon Water With Nuts
Meal 6Grilled Tofu With Quinoa Salad
Meal 7Fruit Smoothie
Meal 8Herbal Tea With Nuts
Day 7
Meal 1Vermicelli Upma
Meal 2Mixed Fruit Salad
Meal 3Whole Wheat Pasta With Marinara Sauce
Meal 4Vegetable Sticks With Yogurt Dip
Meal 5Turmeric Milk With Nuts
Meal 6Chickpea Curry With Brown Rice
Meal 7Greek Yogurt With Berries
Meal 8Herbal Tea With Nuts

Foods You Should Eat On A Calorie Deficit Diet Plan

What to eat in a calorie deficit diet? So, when you want to eat fewer calories than your body uses, it’s good to focus on foods that don’t have a lot of calories. Here are some foods to eat when you’re trying to do that:

  • Fruits and Vegetables: Think colorful stuff like apples, carrots, and broccoli. They’re full of vitamins and fiber but don’t add many calories.

Reason: They give your body the good stuff it needs without making you take in too many calories.

  • Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and oats are like the superheroes of grains. They keep you energized and are packed with healthy carbs.

Reason: These grains provide a steady release of energy and keep you feeling full without piling on the calories.

  • Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans are like little powerhouses with protein and fiber, making you feel satisfied without loading up on calories.

Reason: They’re a great combo of protein and fiber, keeping you full and fueled.

  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds give you healthy fats that are tiny but mighty. They give you healthy fats and loads of nutrients.

Reason: Healthy fats keep you satisfied, and these little guys bring a ton of nutritional benefits.

  • Lean Proteins: In this calorie deficit diet plan tofu, tempeh, and low-fat dairy are your buddies for protein without packing in too many calories.

Reason: Protein helps you maintain muscle and stay full, and these options do that without adding loads of calories.

  • Sugary Drinks: Skip sodas, sugary juices, and energy drinks because they bring a ton of unnecessary calories without much nutritional value.

Reason: Liquid calories can add up quickly, and cutting them out helps in maintaining a calorie deficit.

  • Leafy Greens: Throw in spinach, kale, and other leafy greens. They’re like nutrient powerhouses with low-calorie tags.

Reason: They’re packed with vitamins and minerals but won’t load you up with calories.

  • Berries: Snack on strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. They’re tasty, full of antioxidants, and won’t sabotage your calorie goals.

Reason: Berries add sweetness without a calorie overload, plus they bring a bunch of antioxidants.

  • Greek Yogurt: Go for Greek yogurt as a protein-packed snack. It’s got probiotics and helps keep you feeling satisfied.

Reason: Protein and probiotics are a winning combo for keeping you full and supporting your gut health.

  • Eggs: Include eggs in your meals. They’re a good source of protein and can keep you feeling satisfied without adding too many calories.

Reason: Protein is key for staying full, and eggs do that job without bringing lots of extra calories.

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  • Fish: Choose fatty fish like salmon or mackerel. They give you healthy omega-3 fatty acids and protein.

Reason: Healthy fats and protein from fish contribute to overall well-being without piling on unnecessary calories.

Including these foods in your calorie deficit diet plan helps you get the nutrients your body needs while managing your calorie intake for effective weight management.

Foods One Should Avoid On A Calorie Deficit Diet

What to avoid in a calorie deficit diet? So, when you’re trying to eat fewer calories, it’s smart to choose foods that give you lots of good stuff like vitamins and minerals without adding too many calories. Here are some foods you should stay away from:

  • Processed Foods: These are things like chips, cookies, and ready-made meals. They often have a lot of unhealthy fats and sugars. Eating them makes it easy to take in too many calories without getting much nutrition.

Reason: They’re like empty calories – you eat them, but they don’t give your body the good stuff it needs.

  • Sugary Drinks: This includes sodas, fruit juices, and sweetened drinks. They taste good, but they’re packed with extra calories that your body doesn’t really need. 

Reason: Your body doesn’t feel as full after drinking calories as it does after eating them, so you might end up consuming more overall.

  • Fried Foods: Think of things like fried chicken or fries. They’re delicious, but the way they’re cooked adds lots of calories that won’t help you lose weight.

Reason: Fried foods should be avoided from a calorie deficit diet plan because soak up a lot of oil, which means more calories without much nutritional value.

  • Refined Carbs: This includes things like white bread and white rice. They’re tasty, but they can add up to too many calories without giving you the nutrients your body needs.

Reason: Whole grains, like brown rice and whole wheat bread, have more fiber and nutrients, making you feel full and satisfied with fewer calories.

  • High-Calorie Condiments: Things like mayo, creamy sauces, and dressings can quickly add up in calories, turning a healthy salad into a high-calorie meal.

Reason: Using lighter dressings or consuming condiments in moderation helps control calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.

Remember, in a calorie deficit diet, it’s not just about avoiding these high calorie deficit foods but also about being mindful of portions, choosing foods with more nutrients, and maintaining a balanced diet for overall health.

The Effect Of Calorie Deficit Diet On Our Body

A diet plan that reduces calories has grown in popularity as a means of losing weight. However, what impact does it have on our bodies? Let’s investigate.

1. Helps With Weight Loss: Intake of fewer calories regularly will help you reduce some weight but if the energy balance is disturbed it will lead to weight gain. So, it is better to consult a dietitian or nutritionist before taking any step.

2. Boost Energy And Help Stay Healthy: The best and the most effective way to lose weight is to maintain a calorie deficit diet plan. It will not only help you lose weight but also keep you energetic all day long. 


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3. Normalize Body Fat: For healthy weight loss, you should give preference to proper nutrition with a normal calorie deficit, in which weight will go away gradually. A calorie deficit diet not only normalizes body fat but also makes you stronger.

4. Improve Blood Sugar Levels: By following a low-calorie diet plan you can reduce sugar and carbohydrate intake which will help you maintain a healthy blood sugar level

How To Achieve A Calorie Deficit?

For healthy and effective weight loss on a calorie deficit diet, the following tips are recommended:

  • Eat Less, Move More: Consume fewer calories by eating smaller portions and increasing your physical activity. It’s like your body budget – spend more (burn calories) than you take in.
  • Choose Nutrient-Rich Foods: Go for foods packed with good stuff like fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. They give your body what it needs without loading up on extra calories.
  • Watch Portion Sizes: Be mindful of how much you eat. Eating smaller portions helps you enjoy your favorite foods without overdoing it.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly to stay hydrated and fend off unnecessary snacking. Sometimes, our bodies confuse thirst with hunger.
  • Limit Sugary and Processed Foods: Cut down on sugary drinks, snacks, and processed foods from the calorie deficit diet plan. They often bring in lots of calories without much nutritional value.
  • Embrace Protein: Foods with protein, like chicken, beans, and yogurt, help you stay full and preserve muscle. It’s like the secret weapon against hunger.
  • Keep a Food Journal: Write down what you eat. It helps you see patterns, stay accountable, and make better choices.
  • Be Patient: Results take time. Don’t feel discouraged if you don’t see immediate changes. Stay consistent, and think about the long-term benefits.
  • Mix-Up Exercises: Include both cardio and strength weight loss exercises to burn calories and stay fit. 
  • Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to when you’re hungry and when you’re full. Avoid eating just because you’re bored or stressed.
  • Track Your Progress: Keep an eye on how you’re doing. If needed, adjust your plan. Small changes can lead to big results over time.
  • Seek Professional Advice: If you’re unsure, talk to a healthcare professional or a dietitian. They can give you personalized guidance based on your health needs.

Remember, it’s not about quick fixes but creating a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. Keep it simple, stay on track, and focus on your overall well-being.

Side Effects Of The Calorie Deficit Diet 

Cutting too many calories can lead to health problems. The body needs a certain amount to function well. Risks of eating too few calories include:

  • Not Enough Nutrients: When you eat too few calories, your body might miss out on important nutrients. This calorie deficit diet plan can cause issues with your bones and overall health because your body needs a variety of vitamins and minerals to function well.

Symptoms: You might feel tired a lot and lack the energy you need for everyday activities.

  • Brain Energy Deprivation: Eating too few calories can also deprive your brain of the energy it requires to function properly. This can affect your concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function.

Symptoms: You may find it hard to focus, and your thinking might feel foggy.
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  • Slowed Metabolism: Cutting too many calories can slow down your metabolism. Your metabolism is like your body’s engine – it burns calories to keep you going. If it slows down, losing weight becomes more difficult.

Symptoms: You might notice that even when you’re eating less, you’re not losing weight as expected.

  • Constipation: A lack of calories, especially from fiber-rich foods, can contribute to digestive issues.

Symptoms: Difficulty passing stool and discomfort.

  • Increased Risk of Gallstones: Drastically reducing calories may increase the risk of developing gallstones. These are hard particles that can form in your gallbladder.

Symptoms: Pain in the upper abdomen, especially after meals, and sometimes nausea or vomiting.

  • Getting Sick Often: Not eating enough can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to getting sick.

Symptoms: You might catch colds or infections more frequently.

  • Trouble Losing Weight: Paradoxically, eating too few calories can make it harder to shed those extra pounds because of the impact on your metabolism.

Symptoms: Despite your efforts, you might find weight loss progress is slow or non-existent.

  • Mood and Behavior Changes: A calorie deficit diet plan affects your mood and behavior due to changes in hormone levels.

Symptoms: Feeling irritable, anxious, or having mood swings.

  • Difficulty Sleeping: Not getting enough calories may disrupt your sleep patterns.

Symptoms: Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to fatigue.

Before cutting calories, talk to a doctor or nutritionist, especially if you have health conditions like diabetes. They can help with a deficit diet plan for weight loss that’s right for you.

Mehak’s Fat Loss Journey

Witness Mehak’s transformation from obese to fit in just 6 months, proving that losing weight is achievable with determination and the support of Fitelo’s expert dietitians.

How To Make Low Calorie Palak Chaat Recipe – Dietitian Mac Singh

Here, we have one of the most popular low calorie recipes that you can cook in your home if you’re looking for more options of low calorie deficit foods item. You can also follow this YouTube channel for more healthy recipe updates.

Conclusion 

In short, the calorie deficit diet is a simple way to lose weight by eating less. It means choosing foods wisely and moving more.

Understanding the basics is about knowing that calories are the energy in our food, and we should eat a mix of good things. Eat foods with lots of nutrients, control how much you eat, and keep a balanced diet.

While this calorie deficit diet plan can help you lose weight and feel more energetic, be careful not to cut calories too much. It can cause health problems like not getting enough nutrients and slowing down your body.

To make it work, be consistent and check how you’re doing. If needed, talk to healthcare professionals or dietitians, especially if you have health issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Fat Can You Burn In A Week With A Calorie Deficit Diet?

Everyone’s body is unique, so the outcome of a calorie deficit diet varies. Some may see quick results, while others might take longer. With a good food plan, you can lose about 500gm in a week.

Do Calorie Deficit Diets Promote Good Health?

Eating at least 500 calories daily in a Calorie deficit diet is healthy and great for sustainable weight loss. Remove sugary drinks and processed snacks for better results.


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How Can I Reach A Good Dietitian For A Calorie Deficit Diet? 

If you need a good dietitian for a Calorie deficit diet, connect with Fitelo health experts. They provide helpful advice and answers to your fitness questions.

How Many Calories Should I Eat To Be In A Calorie Deficit?

To be in a calorie deficit diet plan, figure out your daily calorie needs based on factors like weight and activity. Then, cut around 10-75%, aiming for a 500-1000 daily deficit for healthy weight loss (about 0.5 to 1 kg per week).

What Are Some Examples Of Foods That Are Low In Calories But High In Nutrients?

Certain veggies (cauliflower, carrots, greens), fruits (apples, oranges), and foods like reduced-fat dairy, seeds, and nuts are low in calories but packed with nutrients. They’re good choices for a healthy diet.

Contact Us Today

Get in touch with our expert team at Fitelo to kick-start your transformative journey! Let us guide you toward your weight loss goals and help you cultivate sustainable and healthy eating habits. So, contact us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you with Fitelo!

Disclaimer

This blog was written to help you make healthy and better food choices. So, be aware and take care. The vital thing to consider is your health before starting a restrictive diet. Therefore, before starting, always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian if you have any concerns.

Eat Healthy, Live Healthy. Enjoy a long, happy life.

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