1. What is Maintenance Calories?

Maintenance calories represent the number of calories your body needs to maintain its current weight, taking into account your basal metabolic rate (BMR) and physical activity level.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the maintenance calories formula:

Where:

• \( \text{BMR} \) — Basal Metabolic Rate (kcal/day)
• \( \text{Activity Factor} \) — Multiplier based on activity level

Activity Factor Values:

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

3. Importance of Maintenance Calories Calculation

Details: Knowing your maintenance calories is essential for weight management. It helps determine appropriate calorie intake for weight loss, maintenance, or gain goals.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your BMR in kcal/day and select your activity level from the dropdown menu. All values must be valid (BMR > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is BMR and how is it different from maintenance calories?
A: BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is the number of calories your body needs at complete rest, while maintenance calories include your activity level.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This provides a good estimate, but individual variations in metabolism and activity patterns may affect accuracy.

Q3: How often should I recalculate my maintenance calories?
A: Recalculate whenever your weight changes significantly or your activity level changes substantially.

Q4: Can maintenance calories change over time?
A: Yes, maintenance calories can change with age, weight fluctuations, changes in muscle mass, and alterations in activity levels.

Q5: Should I use this for weight loss planning?
A: This calculator provides a good starting point, but individual adjustments may be needed based on your specific metabolism and response to calorie intake.