The discretionary calories allowance is based on estimated calorie needs by age/sex group. Physical activity increases calorie needs, so those who are more physically active need more total calories and have a larger discretionary calorie allowance. The discretionary calorie allowance is part of total estimated calorie needs, not in addition to total calorie needs. The chart gives a general guide.

Age and sex		Not physically active*			Physically active**
		Estimated total calorie need	Estimated discretionary calorie allowance		Estimated total calorie need	Estimated discretionary calorie allowance
Children 2-3 years old		1000 calories	165***		1000-1400 calories	165 to 170
Children 4-8 years old		1200-1400 calories	170***		1400-1800 calories	170 to 195
Girls 9-13 years old		1600 calories	130		1600-2200 calories	130 to 290
Boys 9-13 years old		1800 calories	195		1800-2600 calories	195 to 410
Girls 14-18 years old		1800 calories	195		2000-2400 calories	265 to 360
Boys 14-18 years old		2200 calories	290		2400-3200 calories	360 to 650
Females 19-30 years old		2000 calories	265		2000-2400 calories	265 to 360
Males 19-30 years old		2400 calories	360		2600-3000 calories	410 to 510
Females 31-50 years old		1800 calories	195		2000-2200 calories	265 to 290
Males 31-50 years old		2200 calories	290		2400-3000 calories	360 to 510
Females 51+ years old		1600 calories	130		1800-2200 calories	195 to 290
Males 51+ years old		2000 calories	265		2200-2800 calories	290 to 425

*These amounts are appropriate for individuals who get less than 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days. Click here for more information about physical activity.
**These amounts are appropriate for individuals who get at least 30 minutes (lower calorie level) to at least 60 minutes (higher calorie level) of moderate physical activity most days. Click here for more information about physical activity.
***The number of discretionary calories is higher for children 8 and younger than it is for older children or adults consuming the same number of calories, because younger children’s nutrient needs are lower. Therefore, less food from the basic food groups and fewer “essential calories” are needed.