Energy in versus energy out is the key to weight management.
If you keep to your budget, and the kilojoules you consume balance the kilojoules your body burns each day, then your weight will stay the same. If you consume excess kilojoules, this energy is stored as excess body weight. And if you under-consume kilojoules, your body uses up your body energy stores, resulting in weight loss.
When your goal is to lose weight, reducing your daily kilojoule intake by around 2100 kJ each day will help you slowly but surely achieve a healthy weight. For our members on the go, keep on top of your calorie budget with our free Energy Balancer.
Spending your kilojoule budget
Once you have calculated your kilojoule budget, you can focus on the quality and quantity of food and drinks you choose. Ideally, the majority of your kilojoules should be spent on food essentials – the whole foods, rich with nutrients needed by our bodies for good health. Any of the leftover budget can be spent on small amounts of low nutrient foods and drinks – the treats, the empty calorie choices, takeaway and indulgence foods.
References/more information
Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand
Australian Government Department of Health report
