Understanding the science behind your daily calorie needs
Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) represents the total number of calories your body burns in a 24-hour period. It includes your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) plus the calories burned through physical activity, exercise, and daily movements.
Our calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, developed in 1990 and considered the most accurate formula for calculating BMR in healthy individuals.
BMR = 10 × weight(kg) + 6.25 × height(cm) - 5 × age + 5
BMR = 10 × weight(kg) + 6.25 × height(cm) - 5 × age - 161
This equation has been validated through numerous studies and provides accuracy within ±10% for most individuals.
To calculate TDEE, we multiply your BMR by an activity factor that represents your lifestyle and exercise habits:
Based on your TDEE, we provide calorie recommendations for different goals:
TDEE - 300-500 calories for sustainable weight loss
TDEE calories to maintain current weight
TDEE + 300-500 calories for lean muscle growth