1. What is TDEE?

Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) 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 essential for weight management and nutrition planning.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation for BMR, adjusted for activity level:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in centimeters (cm)
• \( age \) — Age in years
• \( activity\ factor \) — Multiplier based on physical activity level

Activity Factors:

• Sedentary (little/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
• Extra active (very hard exercise & physical job): 1.9

3. Importance of TDEE Calculation

Details: Knowing your TDEE helps in creating effective diet plans for weight loss, maintenance, or muscle gain. It provides a scientific basis for calorie intake recommendations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kg, height in cm, age in years, and select your activity level based on your weekly exercise routine. All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use the Mifflin-St Jeor equation?
A: The Mifflin-St Jeor equation is considered one of the most accurate BMR formulas for the general population.

Q2: How often should I recalculate my TDEE?
A: Recalculate every 4-6 weeks or whenever your weight changes significantly or your activity level changes.

Q3: Is this calculation accurate for athletes?
A: While generally accurate, highly trained athletes may have different metabolic rates and may require more personalized assessment.

Q4: Can I use this for weight loss?
A: Yes, subtract 500 calories from your TDEE for a safe weight loss of about 0.5kg per week.

Q5: Does this account for muscle mass?
A: The equation uses weight but doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Individuals with higher muscle mass may have a slightly higher TDEE.