Lyla Lindsey
The average Australian consumes around 8,700 kilojoules (kJ) a day, which is equivalent to 2,000-2,100 calories. This figure is used as a benchmark for food labels and is considered the average daily energy requirement for Australian adults. However, it's important to note that individual energy needs vary based on factors such as age, height, metabolism, weight, and physical activity levels. The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend consuming a balanced diet from the five food groups to maintain a healthy weight and prevent chronic conditions. While calorie counting can be a tool for weight loss, focusing on nutrient-dense whole foods and a balanced diet is a more sustainable approach to long-term health.
How many calories does the average Australian eat?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average energy intake for men | 2,308 calories (9,655 kJ) |
| Average energy intake for women | 1,769 calories (7,402 kJ) |
| Average daily energy requirement | 8,700 kJ |
| Calories for weight loss for 19-30-year-old women | 2,000-2,400 calories per day |
| Calories for weight loss for 19-30-year-old men | 2,400-3,000 calories per day |
| Calories for weight loss for 31-59-year-old women | 1,800-2,200 calories per day |
| Calories for weight loss for 31-59-year-old men | 2,200-3,000 per day |
| Calories for weight loss for women 60+ | 1,600-2,000 per day |
| Calories for weight loss for men 60+ | 2,000-2,600 calories per day |
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What You'll Learn
Average daily calorie intake
The average daily calorie intake varies depending on age, gender, bone structure, body size, metabolic health, and level of daily physical activity. The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend consuming food from across the five food groups daily to prevent diet-related diseases and chronic conditions.
According to the latest Australian Health Survey, the average energy intake was 2,308 calories (9,655 kJ) for men and 1,769 calories (7,402 kJ) for women. However, the Bureau of Statistics notes that these values may be underreported and suggests that true energy intakes are likely to be about 20% higher. This would result in an average daily calorie intake of approximately 2,770 calories for men and 2,123 calories for women.
It is important to note that these are just estimates, and individual energy needs can vary based on factors such as height, metabolism, weight, and exercise activity level. Active individuals generally require more energy than those who lead more sedentary lifestyles.
To maintain their weight, the average Australian adult is estimated to require approximately 8,700 kJ (kilojoules) per day, which translates to about 2,000 calories when divided by 4.2 (the conversion factor between kilojoules and calories). This value is commonly used as a benchmark for food labels and 'Percent Daily Intake' values.
To lose weight, individuals need to consume fewer calories than they burn through physical activity and everyday bodily functions. This can be achieved by reducing portion sizes, choosing nutrient-rich foods, and following a balanced, calorie-controlled diet.
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Calorie intake by gender
Calorie intake varies depending on a person's age, gender, bone structure, body size, metabolic health, and level of daily physical activity. The average energy intake in Australia is 2,308 calories (9,655 kJ) for men and 1,769 calories (7,402 kJ) for women. However, the Bureau of Statistics notes that these numbers may be underreported and that the true energy intake is likely to be about 20% higher.
Men generally require more calories than women. For example, the UK's National Health Service recommends an average of 2,500 calories per day for men and 2,000 calories per day for women. Similarly, according to one source, men between the ages of 19 and 30 should consume 2,400 to 3,000 calories per day, while women of the same age group should consume 2,000 to 2,400 calories. For those between the ages of 31 and 59, men should consume 2,200 to 3,000 calories, while women should consume 1,800 to 2,200. For those 60 and above, men are advised to consume 2,000 to 2,600 calories, while women should consume 1,600 to 2,000.
It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and individual calorie needs may vary. To lose weight, a person generally needs to consume fewer calories than they burn through physical activity. However, it is not advisable to follow fad diets that severely restrict calorie intake, as this can be unhealthy and lead to metabolic slowdown. Instead, a balanced approach that includes nutrient-rich foods from various food groups is recommended for long-term weight loss and maintenance.
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Calorie intake by age
Calorie intake varies depending on age, gender, bone structure, body size, metabolic health, and level of daily physical activity. The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend consuming food from across the five food groups daily to prevent diet-related diseases and chronic conditions.
Calorie Intake for 19-30-Year-Olds
Females between the ages of 19 and 30 should consume 2,000 to 2,400 calories per day, while males in the same age group should consume 2,400 to 3,000 calories per day.
Calorie Intake for 31-59-Year-Olds
For females aged 31 to 59, the recommended daily calorie intake is 1,800 to 2,200. Males in the same age group should consume 2,200 to 3,000 calories per day.
Calorie Intake for 60-Year-Olds and Above
Females aged 60 and above should consume 1,600 to 2,000 calories per day. Males in this age group should consume 2,000 to 2,600 calories daily.
It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and individual energy needs may vary based on factors such as height, metabolism, weight, and exercise activity level. Active individuals require more calories than sedentary individuals.
To lose weight, it is generally recommended to consume fewer calories than you burn. However, it is important to choose nutrient-rich foods and follow a balanced diet to achieve long-term weight loss goals and maintain a healthy weight.
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Calorie intake by weight goals
Calorie intake varies depending on an individual's weight goals. For those looking to lose weight, it is essential to create a calorie deficit by consuming fewer calories than your body burns. This can be achieved through a combination of reducing calorie intake, increasing physical activity, or both. The number of calories a person should eat per day to lose weight depends on their age, gender, bone structure, body size, metabolic health, and activity level. For example, a female between the ages of 19 and 30 should consume 2,000 to 2,400 calories per day, while a male in the same age group should consume 2,400 to 3,000 calories.
On the other hand, individuals aiming to maintain their current weight should aim to consume the recommended daily calories based on their gender and age. This means eating the same amount of calories that their body burns. For instance, the average energy intake for Australian men is 2,308 calories, while it is 1,769 calories for women, according to the Australian Health Survey. However, it is important to note that these values are just estimates, and individual energy requirements may vary.
Additionally, those who want to gain weight or build muscle should consume more calories than they burn. This is known as a calorie surplus. While the specific number of calories will depend on individual factors, it generally involves increasing food intake, particularly from nutrient-dense sources, to support muscle growth and weight gain.
Regardless of weight goals, it is crucial to make healthy food choices. This includes opting for unprocessed, whole foods that are high in dietary fibre, such as vegetables, legumes, fruits, and wholegrain foods. These foods provide essential nutrients, help control weight, and prevent chronic diseases. It is also important to limit discretionary or highly processed foods that are high in added sugars, fats, and salt, as these can contribute to excess weight and health issues.
Furthermore, a balanced approach to dieting is recommended for long-term success. Fad diets that severely restrict calorie intake may lead to short-term weight loss, but they are not sustainable and can negatively impact metabolic rate, making weight maintenance more challenging in the future. Instead, focus on a calorie-controlled diet that includes all food groups to ensure your body receives the necessary macronutrients, minerals, and vitamins.
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Calorie intake by daily activity
The number of calories a person burns each day depends on several factors, including their height, weight, sex, age, and activity level. For instance, a physically active 25-year-old male that is 6 feet in height requires a higher calorie intake than a 5-foot-tall, sedentary 70-year-old woman. According to the U.S. Department of Health, adult males generally require 2,000–3,000 calories per day to maintain weight, while adult females need around 1,600–2,400 calories. The Mifflin-St Jeor equation is a way to calculate how many calories a person needs to eat per day based on their health goals, sex, age, height, and weight.
The number of calories burned also depends on the type of activity and the intensity. For example, fast walking uses more calories than walking at a moderate pace. The more energy spent on an activity, the more calories are burned. To lose weight, most people find that they need 60–90 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, like brisk walking, on most days. Increasing everyday activities like taking the stairs instead of the lift, parking further away, or trying to sit for less time is also helpful.
In Australia, the average energy intake was reported to be 2,308 calories for men and 1,769 calories for women, according to the latest Australian Health Survey. However, the Bureau of Statistics noted a possible "under-reporting bias" in dietary surveys, estimating that true energy intakes are likely to be about 20% higher.
While there is no concrete rule for how to vary calorie intake, it is generally recommended that the difference between high-calorie and low-calorie days be around 200–300 calories for people with lower activity levels. For those with higher activity levels, the calorie difference should be larger.
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Frequently asked questions
The average Australian consumes around 8,700 kilojoules (kJ) a day, which is roughly equivalent to 2,000 calories. However, this figure varies depending on age, gender, bone structure, body size, metabolic health, and level of physical activity. According to the latest Australian Health Survey, men consume an average of 2,308 calories (9,655 kJ) per day, while women consume an average of 1,769 calories (7,402 kJ).
To lose weight, you need to consume fewer calories than you burn. This can be achieved by reducing your calorie intake, increasing your physical activity, or a combination of both. Choosing nutrient-rich foods and following a balanced diet is crucial for long-term weight loss.
To reduce your calorie intake, you can swap discretionary foods for whole foods from the five food groups, reduce portion sizes, and avoid extra servings. Eating more high-fibre foods, such as vegetables, legumes, fruits, and wholegrains, can also help control your weight.
Physical activity plays a significant role in weight loss. It is recommended to engage in 60-90 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking, on most days. Increasing everyday activities, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, can also help burn more calories.
No. Calories from nutrient-dense foods, such as whole grains, legumes, and fruits, have different effects on the body compared to calories from nutritionally poor, processed, or refined carbs. Focus on a balanced diet that includes all food groups to ensure you're getting the necessary nutrients, minerals, and vitamins.
