Training glossaryNutrition & energy
Caloric deficit
A caloric deficit is eating fewer calories than the body burns in a day, which leads to weight loss over time.
Also known as: Calorie deficit
For fat loss, the caloric deficit is the decisive factor — no exercise or supplement replaces that calorie balance.
Very aggressive deficits increase the risk of losing muscle along with fat. A moderate deficit, with strength training and enough protein, preserves lean mass better.
Sources
Scientific references behind this entry.
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