What is the recommended energy deficit for achieving weight loss of 1 to 2 pounds per week?

The recommended energy deficit for achieving a weight loss of 1 to 2 pounds per week is typically in the range of 400 to 500 calories per day. This aligns with general guidelines established by health organizations, which suggest that a deficit of approximately 3,500 calories is needed to lose one pound of body weight. Therefore, for a rate of weight loss of one to two pounds per week, an energy deficit of 500 to 1,000 calories per day is generally recommended.

Creating a deficit of 250 to 300 calories per day, as indicated in the chosen answer, would likely result in a slower rate of weight loss, potentially less than one pound per week, which may not align with the goal set by the question. Thus, while the chosen answer suggests a small daily deficit that may contribute to gradual weight loss, it does not meet the more commonly accepted range needed for the target of one to two pounds weekly.