1. What is Basal Metabolic Rate?

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body needs to maintain basic physiological functions at rest. It represents the minimum energy required to keep your body functioning, including breathing, circulation, and cell production.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor Equation:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms
• \( height \) — Height in centimeters
• \( age \) — Age in years
• \( gender\_factor \) — +5 for men, -161 for women

Explanation: The equation accounts for differences in body composition between genders and the natural decline in metabolism with age.

3. Importance of BMR Calculation

Details: Knowing your BMR helps in creating effective weight management plans, whether for weight loss, maintenance, or gain. It serves as the foundation for calculating total daily energy expenditure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kg, height in cm, age in years, and select your gender. For accurate results, measure your weight and height without clothes and shoes first thing in the morning.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this BMR calculation?
A: The Mifflin-St Jeor Equation is considered the most accurate for estimating BMR in healthy individuals, with about 90% accuracy.

Q2: Why is BMR different for men and women?
A: Men typically have more muscle mass and less body fat than women of the same weight, resulting in higher energy expenditure.

Q3: How does age affect BMR?
A: BMR decreases by about 1-2% per decade after age 20 due to loss of muscle mass and changes in hormonal and neurological processes.

Q4: Can I increase my BMR?
A: Yes, through regular exercise (especially strength training), maintaining muscle mass, and avoiding severe calorie restriction.

Q5: How does BMR relate to total calorie needs?
A: Total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) is calculated by multiplying BMR by an activity factor (1.2-2.5) based on your physical activity level.