The Unf*ck Your Fitness Podcast

248. Understanding the Truth About Calorie Deficits

Kristy Castillo

Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.

0:00 | 38:11

You've heard it before: "The only way to lose weight is a calorie deficit." And while that statement is technically true, it's also one of the most oversimplified pieces of fitness advice on the internet.


In this episode, I'm breaking down what a calorie deficit actually is, why it's not as simple as "eat less and move more," and why some women may need to focus on maintenance calories before worrying about fat loss.


If you've ever felt stuck, frustrated, or confused about why eating less isn't working anymore, this episode is for you.


In this episode, we cover:

  • What a calorie deficit actually is and how it works
  • Why fat loss requires a calorie deficit - but that doesn't mean starvation
  • Why "eat less, move more" isn't always helpful advice
  • How your starting point determines your fat-loss approach
  • When maintenance calories may be more beneficial than a deficit
  • What reverse dieting is and who it may help
  • How calorie deficits connect to body recomposition
  • Signs your calorie deficit may be too aggressive


Links/Resources:

Send me a text with episode ideas or just to say hi!

Support the show

Podcasts we love

Check out these other fine podcasts recommended by us, not an algorithm.