Calories are a unit of measurement used to determine the amount of energy required to perform a physical activity in the human body. The number of calories that an individual needs varies depending on several factors, including age.
Factors That Affect Caloric Needs
Caloric needs vary among individuals based on several factors. Age is just one of these factors. Here are other factors that can affect the number of calories an individual requires:.
- Sex
- Weight
- Height
- Physical activity level
The Caloric Needs of Infants
Infants require the least amount of calories compared to all age groups because they haven’t started to move around or engage in physical activity.
The average calorie requirement for infants is between 80-120 calories per kilogram of body weight per day. As babies grow, their energy needs will increase.
The Caloric Needs of Children
The average calorie intake for children ranges from 1,400 to 2,600 calories per day, depending on their gender, age, and level of physical activity. Boys typically require more calories than girls due to their larger body size.
As children grow, their calorie needs will increase. The following table gives an idea of daily calorie needs by age and gender:.
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| Age | Caloric Needs for Boys | Caloric Needs for Girls |
|---|---|---|
| 4-8 years old | 1,400-1,600 calories | 1,200-1,400 calories |
| 9-13 years old | 1,800-2,600 calories | 1,400-2,200 calories |
| 14-18 years old | 2,200-3,200 calories | 1,800-2,400 calories |
The Caloric Needs of Adults
As individuals age, their metabolic rate slows down, indicating a decrease in the number of calories required by the body. However, this doesn’t mean that older adults should consume fewer calories, particularly if they remain highly active.
The following table shows an estimate of daily calorie needs based on age and level of physical activity:.
| Age | Sedentary Lifestyle | Moderately Active Lifestyle | Active Lifestyle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19-30 years old | 2,000-2,600 calories | 2,400-2,800 calories | 3,000 calories |
| 31-50 years old | 1,800-2,400 calories | 2,200-2,600 calories | 2,800-3,000 calories |
| 51+ years old | 1,600-2,200 calories | 2,000-2,400 calories | 2,400-2,800 calories |
The Caloric Needs of Athletes
Athletes and individuals who engage in vigorous physical activity burn more calories than sedentary individuals. Their calorie needs, therefore, are usually higher.
An endurance athlete may burn up to 3,500 calories a day, which is about 1,000 calories more than the average adult.
Conclusion
The number of calories an individual requires depends on various factors, including age, weight, height, sex, and level of physical activity. Age is, therefore, just one of these factors.
To determine the exact number of calories an individual requires, they should consider consulting a doctor or a nutritionist who can help them determine what amount is right for them.
