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 and physical activity. It's often referred to as "maintenance calories" - the amount needed to maintain your current weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the TDEE formula:

Where:

• \( BMR \) — Basal Metabolic Rate (calories burned at rest)
• \( Activity\ Factor \) — Multiplier based on activity level (1.2-1.9)

Explanation: Your BMR represents the calories needed for basic bodily functions, while the activity factor accounts for your daily physical activity level.

3. Importance of TDEE Calculation

Details: Knowing your TDEE is essential for weight management. Consuming fewer calories than your TDEE leads to weight loss, while consuming more leads to weight gain. It provides a scientific basis for creating effective diet plans.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your calculated BMR value (from a BMR calculator) and select your activity level based on your typical weekly exercise routine. For accurate results, use a recent BMR calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should I recalculate my TDEE?
A: You should recalculate your TDEE whenever your weight changes significantly (5+ pounds) or your activity level changes substantially.

Q2: What's the difference between BMR and TDEE?
A: BMR is the calories your body needs at complete rest, while TDEE includes all daily activities and exercise.

Q3: Why are there different activity multipliers?
A: Different activity levels burn different amounts of calories. The multipliers are based on extensive research about energy expenditure across various activity patterns.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: While it provides a good estimate, individual variations in metabolism, NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis), and other factors can affect actual energy expenditure.

Q5: Should I eat exactly at my TDEE for maintenance?
A: TDEE provides a starting point. You may need to adjust slightly based on how your body responds. Monitor your weight weekly and adjust calories by 100-200 as needed.