1. What is TDEE?

Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) is an estimate of how many calories you burn per day when exercise is taken into account. It's calculated by multiplying your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) by your activity factor.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the TDEE equation:

Where:

• \( BMR \) — Basal Metabolic Rate (kcal/day)
• \( activity\_factor \) — Multiplier based on activity level

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 — Extremely Active (very hard exercise & physical job)

3. Importance of TDEE Calculation

Details: Knowing your TDEE is essential for weight management. To lose weight, consume fewer calories than your TDEE; to gain weight, consume more.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your BMR in kcal/day and select your activity level. For accurate results, use a recent BMR measurement or calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between BMR and TDEE?
A: BMR is calories burned at complete rest, while TDEE includes all daily activities and exercise.

Q2: How often should I recalculate my TDEE?
A: Recalculate whenever your weight changes significantly (±10 lbs) or your activity level changes.

Q3: Which activity factor should I choose?
A: Be honest about your activity level. Most people overestimate their activity - when in doubt, choose a lower level.

Q4: Can I use this for weight loss?
A: Yes, subtract 300-500 calories from your TDEE for steady weight loss (about 0.5-1 lb per week).

Q5: Does this account for muscle mass?
A: Indirectly - those with more muscle will have higher BMR, which factors into the TDEE calculation.