Understanding your daily calorie needs begins with estimating your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), the energy your body uses at rest. The Mifflin‑St Jeor equation, widely accepted by nutrition professionals, provides a reliable BMR based on weight, height, age, and gender.
Once BMR is known, it is multiplied by an activity factor that reflects how much you move each day. This yields the Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE), the number of calories required to maintain your current weight given your lifestyle.
To reach a specific goal—whether to lose, maintain, or gain weight—caloric adjustments are applied to the TDEE. A common guideline is to subtract 500 kcal for gradual weight loss or add 500 kcal for weight gain, resulting in a sustainable weekly change of about one pound.
What is BMR in a TDEE calculator?
How do I determine my activity factor for TDEE?
Can this calculator help me lose weight?
What is the Mifflin-St Jeor equation used for?
How accurate is this TDEE calculator?
Can I use this calculator for children?
What should I do if my TDEE seems too high or low?
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.