Calories

The body's energy needs are commonly measured in units of calories. Calories are taken in through consumption of food and drink and expended through exercise and basic metabolic activity. When we consume more calories than we burn, these surplus calories are stored for future use, primarily as body fat. When we burn more than we consume, we burn this stored energy, thereby losing body weight.

Inadequate energy intake: Starvation is rare in the U.S. However, self-imposed starvation is recognized among people with anorexia nervosa.

Excessive energy intake: Obesity is a major health problem affecting 25-35% of the adult population in the U.S. Obesity is associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes and for certain cancers (endometrial, colon, ovarian and breast). More than 60% of adult Americans are overweight.

2000-Calorie Diet Recommendations

Shown below are the reference numbers used to compute the Daily Value percentages that appear on the Nutrition Facts labels on foods sold in the U.S. These numbers are meant to approximate the nutrients needed for the average person consuming 2000 calories per day.

Click any of the vitamin or nutrient names below to learn more about the importance of each element, and to see detailed dietary allowances for specific population groups.

***Daily Value recommendations are based on a 2000-calorie diet. Recommendations for individuals will vary depending on gender, age, weight, and other factors.