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 a crucial metric for weight management and nutrition planning.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation for BMR and multiplies by activity factor:

Where BMR is calculated as:

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

Activity Factors:

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

3. Importance of TDEE Calculation

Details: Knowing your TDEE is essential for effective weight management. To lose weight, consume fewer calories than your TDEE; to gain weight, consume more. It helps create personalized nutrition plans and optimize athletic performance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kg, height in cm, age in years, select gender and activity level. Be honest about your activity level for accurate results. All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use Mifflin-St Jeor equation?
A: The Mifflin-St Jeor equation is considered the most accurate for estimating BMR in healthy individuals and is widely used in clinical settings.

Q2: How often should I recalculate my TDEE?
A: Recalculate every 4-6 weeks or whenever your weight changes significantly, as weight loss/gain affects your metabolic rate.

Q3: Are there limitations to TDEE calculations?
A: These calculations provide estimates. Individual variations in metabolism, body composition, and other factors can affect actual energy expenditure.

Q4: Should I eat at my TDEE for maintenance?
A: Yes, consuming calories equal to your TDEE should maintain your current weight, assuming accurate calculation and consistent activity levels.

Q5: How accurate is this calculator?
A: This provides a scientifically-based estimate. For precise measurements, professional metabolic testing is recommended.