Caloric restriction refers to reducing the number of calories consumed in order to maintain a healthy weight or lose excess body fat. This can involve cutting back on portion sizes, eliminating certain foods, or following a specific diet plan that limits the amount of calories allowed per day. The goal is to create a calorie deficit, where the number of calories consumed is less than the number of calories burned through physical activity and metabolism. By doing so, it can help individuals achieve weight loss goals or maintain a healthy weight over time.