1. What is TDEE?

Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) is the total number of calories your body burns in a day, including basal metabolic rate (BMR) and calories burned through physical activity. It represents the energy your body needs to maintain its current weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the TDEE formula:

Where:

• \( BMR \) — Basal Metabolic Rate (calories burned at rest)
• \( \text{Activity Factor} \) — Multiplier based on your activity level

Explanation: The equation accounts for your base metabolic rate plus the additional energy expenditure from daily activities and exercise.

3. Understanding Activity Levels

Activity Level Definitions:

• Sedentary (1.2): Little or no exercise, desk job
• Lightly Active (1.375): Light exercise 1-3 days per week
• Moderately Active (1.55): Moderate exercise 3-5 days per week
• Very Active (1.725): Hard exercise 6-7 days per week
• Extra Active (1.9): Very hard exercise and physical job

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your BMR value (calculated separately) and select the activity level that best matches your weekly exercise routine. Be honest about your activity level for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is BMR different from TDEE?
A: BMR represents calories burned at complete rest, while TDEE includes all daily activities and exercise.

Q2: How accurate are activity multipliers?
A: They provide estimates based on population averages. Individual results may vary based on metabolism, body composition, and exercise intensity.

Q3: Should I use TDEE for weight loss?
A: Yes, TDEE helps determine maintenance calories. For weight loss, create a calorie deficit below your TDEE.

Q4: How often should I recalculate my TDEE?
A: Recalculate when your weight changes significantly or your activity level changes substantially.

Q5: Can TDEE change over time?
A: Yes, TDEE decreases with weight loss and age, and increases with muscle gain and increased activity.