How many calories does your body burn at rest? Doctor explains daily rates

Even when we are completely at rest, our bodies continue to burn a significant number of calories to perform essential functions. Dr. Andrei Simakov, a neurogastroenterology specialist, explained that the daily calorie burn rate at rest can reach up to 1,800 for men and 1,400 for women. Even individuals who spend their days seated at a computer or lying on the couch still use more than a thousand calories daily.

This energy consumption is primarily used to maintain the body's internal temperature, as humans are warm-blooded and require a constant energy supply for these vital processes. Dr. Simakov further clarified that metabolism remains active even with minimal movement, and the body continuously consumes energy even in the absence of physical activity.

He emphasized that contrary to common belief, the increase in calorie burn during cold weather is not substantial, as it requires exposure to extreme cold or unusual living conditions. The rate of calorie consumption at rest is determined through formulas that take into account factors such as gender, age, and weight. Dr. Simakov noted that calorie burn is relatively higher in youth, gradually decreasing with age, with a noticeable decline typically occurring after the age of sixty.

Weight also plays a significant role, as a man weighing about 80 kilograms burns approximately 1,700 to 1,800 calories per day at rest, while a woman weighing 55 kilograms burns around 1,300 to 1,400 calories. Those with higher body weight, such as a man weighing 140 kilograms, may experience daily calorie burn at rest reaching 2,600 or 2,700 calories.

It is important to note that physical activity increases energy consumption. Light exercise will slightly raise calorie burn, while regular training or physical labor can lead to a significant increase in the number of calories burned daily.