How many calories are in one pound of body fat?

One pound of body fat is generally estimated to contain approximately 3,500 calories. This figure is widely accepted in the fields of nutrition and fitness because it provides a useful benchmark for understanding energy balance in weight loss and gain.

When considering weight loss, this value helps in calculating calorie deficits needed to lose weight. For example, to lose one pound of body fat, an individual could aim to create a deficit of about 500 calories per day over the course of a week, resulting in a total deficit of 3,500 calories.

The other options diverge from this established figure, with values above and below 3,500 calories not supported by current metabolic research. Thus, the choice of 3,500 calories as the caloric equivalent of one pound of body fat is not only well-supported but also serves as a practical guideline for those involved in weight management.