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 (BMR) and calories burned through physical activity. It's often referred to as "maintenance calories" because it indicates how many calories you need to maintain your current weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor Equation to calculate BMR and then multiplies by an activity factor:

Where BMR is calculated as:

• For men: \( BMR = (10 \times weight\ in\ kg) + (6.25 \times height\ in\ cm) - (5 \times age\ in\ years) + 5 \)
• For women: \( BMR = (10 \times weight\ in\ kg) + (6.25 \times height\ in\ cm) - (5 \times age\ in\ years) - 161 \)

Activity factors:

• Sedentary (little or no exercise): 1.2
• Lightly active (light exercise 1-3 days/week): 1.375
• Moderately active (moderate exercise 3-5 days/week): 1.55
• Very active (hard exercise 6-7 days/week): 1.725
• Extremely active (very hard exercise, physical job): 1.9

3. Importance of TDEE Calculation

Details: Knowing your TDEE is essential for weight management. To lose weight, you need to consume fewer calories than your TDEE; to gain weight, you need to consume more. It provides a scientific basis for creating effective diet plans.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms, height in centimeters, age in years, select your gender and activity level. Be honest about your activity level for the most accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is the TDEE calculation?
A: The Mifflin-St Jeor Equation is considered one of the most accurate BMR formulas for the general population, with an accuracy of about ±10% for most people.

Q2: Should I adjust my TDEE over time?
A: Yes, as you lose or gain weight, your TDEE will change. It's recommended to recalculate your TDEE every 4-6 weeks or after significant weight changes.

Q3: Why are there different activity levels?
A: Activity levels account for the additional calories burned through physical activity beyond your basal metabolic rate, which varies significantly between individuals.

Q4: Can TDEE vary day to day?
A: Yes, TDEE can fluctuate based on daily activity levels, but the calculator provides an average estimate for typical weekly activity patterns.

Q5: Is TDEE the same for everyone with the same stats?
A: No, individual variations in metabolism, body composition, and other factors mean that TDEE can vary between people with similar height, weight, and age.