1. What is Calories Maintenance Calculation?

The calories maintenance calculation estimates how many calories you need to consume daily to maintain your current weight based on your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and activity level.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( BMR \) — Basal Metabolic Rate (calories your body needs at complete rest)
• \( activity\_factor \) — Multiplier based on your activity level

Explanation: The equation accounts for your body's basic energy needs plus additional energy expenditure from physical activity.

3. Importance of Calories Calculation

Details: Knowing your maintenance calories is crucial for weight management, whether you want to maintain, lose, or gain weight.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I calculate my BMR?
A: BMR can be calculated using equations like Mifflin-St Jeor or Harris-Benedict, which consider age, gender, weight, and height.

Q2: Are these calculations accurate for everyone?
A: They provide estimates. Individual variations in metabolism, body composition, and activity patterns can affect actual needs.

Q3: How often should I recalculate my maintenance calories?
A: Recalculate whenever your weight changes significantly (±5-10 lbs) or your activity level changes substantially.

Q4: Why does my weight stay the same even when eating more/less than these calculations?
A: The body adapts to calorie changes over time through metabolic adaptation. These are starting estimates that may need adjustment.

Q5: Can I use this for weight loss?
A: Yes, subtract 250-500 kcal/day from maintenance for gradual weight loss (0.5-1 lb/week).