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How To Use BMR To Calculate Calorie Deficit

BMR and Calorie Deficit Formulas:

\[ \text{BMR (men)} = 10 \times \text{weight} + 6.25 \times \text{height} - 5 \times \text{age} + 5 \] \[ \text{BMR (women)} = 10 \times \text{weight} + 6.25 \times \text{height} - 5 \times \text{age} - 161 \] \[ \text{TDEE} = \text{BMR} \times \text{activity multiplier} \] \[ \text{Deficit} = \text{TDEE} - 500 \]

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1. What is BMR and Calorie Deficit?

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body needs to perform basic life-sustaining functions at rest. Calorie deficit is created when you consume fewer calories than your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE), which is essential for weight loss.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formulas:

\[ \text{BMR (men)} = 10 \times \text{weight} + 6.25 \times \text{height} - 5 \times \text{age} + 5 \] \[ \text{BMR (women)} = 10 \times \text{weight} + 6.25 \times \text{height} - 5 \times \text{age} - 161 \] \[ \text{TDEE} = \text{BMR} \times \text{activity multiplier} \] \[ \text{Deficit} = \text{TDEE} - 500 \]

Where:

Explanation: The formulas calculate your basal metabolic rate, then adjust for activity level to determine total daily energy needs, and finally subtract 500 calories to create a deficit for weight loss.

3. Importance of Calorie Deficit Calculation

Details: Accurate calorie deficit calculation is crucial for sustainable weight loss, ensuring you lose fat while preserving muscle mass and maintaining energy levels.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kg, height in cm, age in years, select gender and appropriate activity level. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age between 1-120).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why subtract 500 calories for deficit?
A: A 500-calorie daily deficit typically results in about 0.5 kg (1 lb) of weight loss per week, which is considered safe and sustainable.

Q2: What if my calculated deficit is too low?
A: Never go below 1200 calories for women or 1500 calories for men. If your deficit falls below these levels, focus on increasing activity instead of further reducing calories.

Q3: How accurate are BMR calculations?
A: These formulas provide estimates. Individual variations in metabolism, body composition, and other factors can affect actual calorie needs.

Q4: Should I recalculate as I lose weight?
A: Yes, recalculate every 4-6 weeks or after significant weight changes to adjust your calorie targets accordingly.

Q5: What about macronutrients?
A: While calorie deficit determines weight loss, proper macronutrient balance (protein, carbs, fats) is important for health, muscle preservation, and energy levels.

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