A calorie deficit is when a person consumes fewer calories than they burn. This can be achieved by reducing calorie intake or increasing physical activity. The purpose of a calorie deficit is to lose weight, as it forces the body to use stored fat for energy. A good rule of thumb for healthy weight loss is a deficit of about 500 calories per day, which should put you on course to lose about 1 pound per week. However, the exact calorie deficit needed for weight loss varies depending on individual factors such as age, sex, weight, height, and physical activity levels. It is important to talk to a doctor before starting a weight loss plan, especially if you have other health problems.