How Many Calories a Day for 200 Pounds?

by JUNIPER RUSSO Last Updated: Jan 11, 2016

Juniper Russo, an eclectic autodidact, has been writing professionally since 2008. Her work has appeared in several online and print-based publications, including Animal Wellness. Russo regularly publishes health-related content and advocates an evidence-based, naturopathic approach to health care.

A plate of grilled chicken. Photo Credit Jan Hanus/Hemera/Getty Images

A 200-lb. adult's calorie needs can vary tremendously depending on his medical condition, level of activity, height and gender. Consult a physician or dietitian for expert advice on managing your personal calorie needs.

Target Weight

According to the National Institutes of Health, a weight of 200 lbs. is healthy and acceptable for adults who are over 6 feet, 4 inches in total height. To maintain this weight and stay healthy, engage in regular exercise and eat a balanced diet.

Influencing Factors

The NIH reports that several factors can increase or decrease your calorie needs. People who are female and sedentary have much lower calorie requirements than active males. Those who are pregnant, nursing or coping with chronic illness may have higher than average calorie requirements.

For Sedentary People

According to MayoClinic.com, a sedentary adult needs 2,150 to 2,550 calories each day to maintain a weight of 200 lbs.

Moderately Active

If you engage in light to moderate exercise a few times per week, you will need to consume 2,350 to 3,100 calories each day to maintain a 200-lb. weight.

For Active People

Extremely athletic people have very high calorie needs. MayoClinic.com recommends consuming a minimum of 3,000 calories per day to maintain a weight of 200 lbs. if you exercise vigorously every day. Some active people may need as many as 3,800 calories per day to replace dietary energy burned during exercise.

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