1. What is TDEE?

TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) represents the total number of calories your body burns in a day, including basal metabolic rate, physical activity, and food digestion. It's a crucial metric for weight management and nutrition planning.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the weekly average method:

This method provides the most accurate TDEE estimation by averaging your daily calorie intake over a full week, accounting for daily variations in eating patterns.

3. Importance of Accurate TDEE Calculation

Details: Knowing your precise TDEE is essential for effective weight management, whether your goal is weight loss, maintenance, or muscle gain. It helps create appropriate calorie targets and prevents under/overestimating energy needs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your total calorie intake for a full 7-day period. For best results, track your food intake consistently using a food scale and nutrition tracking app. Ensure you maintain a stable weight during the tracking period for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long should I track calories for accurate TDEE?
A: Minimum 7 days, but 2-4 weeks provides more accurate results as it averages out daily fluctuations.

Q2: What if my weight changes during tracking?
A: For most accurate TDEE, track during weight maintenance. If weight changes, the calculation may need adjustment for weight change calories.

Q3: How accurate is this method compared to formulas?
A: This empirical method is generally more accurate than predictive formulas as it's based on your actual intake and weight stability.

Q4: Should I include exercise calories?
A: No, this method calculates TDEE directly from your maintenance intake. Exercise is already accounted for in the total energy expenditure.

Q5: How often should I recalculate my TDEE?
A: Recalculate every 2-3 months or after significant weight changes (±10 lbs) or activity level changes.