 [ Symptoms ] how many calories per day to loose 3 pounds a week  i will be 70 end of dec and need to loose at least 40 pounds to feel better i am female and a teacher but do suffer from arthritis suggestions [ Disease ] i would first need to know what you weigh now if you reduce your current calorie intake by 500 calories a day theoretically you should lose one pound per week doing the math you would need to reduce your current caloric intake by 1500 per day but i do not know if this would be medically advisable or safe for you since i do not know your medical history before starting any weight reduction program it is best to consult your medical provider first