Cutting Calories Formula:
From: | To: |
The cutting calories formula calculates the appropriate daily calorie intake for fat loss while preserving muscle mass. It uses a 20% deficit from your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) to create a sustainable calorie deficit for effective cutting.
The calculator uses the cutting calories formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula creates a moderate calorie deficit that promotes fat loss while minimizing muscle loss and maintaining energy levels.
Details: A properly calculated calorie deficit is essential for effective fat loss while preserving lean muscle mass. The 20% deficit is considered optimal for sustainable cutting without extreme hunger or metabolic adaptation.
Tips: Enter your calculated TDEE value in kcal/day. Ensure you have an accurate TDEE measurement from a reliable calculator or metabolic testing for best results.
Q1: Why use a 20% deficit for cutting?
A: A 20% deficit provides sustainable fat loss of 0.5-1% body weight per week while preserving muscle mass and maintaining energy levels.
Q2: How often should I recalculate my cutting calories?
A: Recalculate every 4-6 weeks or after significant weight loss (5-10% of body weight) to account for metabolic adaptation.
Q3: What if I'm not losing weight on these calories?
A: Ensure your TDEE calculation is accurate, track all food intake precisely, and consider adding more physical activity.
Q4: Can I use a larger deficit for faster results?
A: Larger deficits may lead to faster weight loss but increase risk of muscle loss, metabolic slowdown, and nutrient deficiencies.
Q5: Should I adjust macros while cutting?
A: Yes, maintain adequate protein intake (1.6-2.2g/kg) to preserve muscle mass while adjusting carbs and fats based on energy needs.