1. What is TDEE?

Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) is the total number of calories you burn in a day, including your basal metabolic rate (BMR) and activity level. It's crucial for weight management and nutrition planning.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the TDEE equation:

Where:

• \( BMR \) — Basal Metabolic Rate (calories burned at rest)
• \( activity\_factor \) — Multiplier based on activity level (1.2-1.9)

Explanation: The equation accounts for your basic metabolic needs plus additional calories burned through physical activity.

3. Importance of TDEE Calculation

Details: Knowing your TDEE helps with weight loss (eat below TDEE), maintenance (eat at TDEE), or weight gain (eat above TDEE) goals.

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 is BMR different from TDEE?
A: BMR is calories burned at complete rest, while TDEE includes all daily activities and exercise.

Q2: What's the most accurate way to get my BMR?
A: Metabolic testing is most accurate, but formulas like Mifflin-St Jeor provide good estimates.

Q3: How often should I recalculate my TDEE?
A: Recalculate after significant weight changes (±10 lbs) or activity level changes.

Q4: Why are there different activity factors for women?
A: Women generally have lower muscle mass than men, which affects calorie burn rates during activity.

Q5: Can I use this for weight loss planning?
A: Yes, subtract 250-500 kcal from your TDEE for safe, sustainable weight loss (0.5-1 lb/week).