How the time is estimated
The calculation starts from your estimated total expenditure (basal rate and activity, see the calorie calculator), then an intake about 20% lower, adjusted to aim for a loss of 0.5% to 1% of your weight per week. One kilogram of body fat represents about 7,700 kcal, so the daily deficit gives a theoretical weekly loss.
That theoretical loss is then reduced by 20% as a precaution, because weight loss slows down over the weeks. The result is shown as a range, because the difference from one person to another is real.
Why aim for a gradual pace?
- A pace of 0.5% to 1% of body weight per week is generally considered easier to sustain than rapid loss.
- Severe restriction is hard to keep up and makes weight regain more likely.
- Planning a stabilisation phase after the loss helps you keep the result.
Some orders of magnitude
To lose 5 kg (11 lb), allow two and a half to four months as a rule of thumb; for 10 kg (22 lb), rather four to eight months. These are only orders of magnitude: the calculator above takes your own profile into account.
What the cure BalenZ programme includes
A cure BalenZ programme includes 8 to 12 weeks of weight loss, followed by 4 weeks of stabilisation. If your goal needs more time, it is picked up in your final review, with recommendations based on your actual results. See How it works.