1. What is TDEE?

TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) represents the total number of calories you burn in a day, including basal metabolic rate (BMR) and physical activity. It's the number of calories you need to maintain your current weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation to estimate BMR, then multiplies by activity factor:

Where \( s \) is +5 for males and -161 for females.

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 Calorie Calculation

Details: Knowing your TDEE is essential for weight management - to maintain weight eat at TDEE, to lose weight eat below TDEE, and to gain weight eat above TDEE.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: For accurate results, measure your weight in the morning after using the bathroom and before eating. Be honest about your activity level.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides a good estimate for most people, but individual variations exist due to muscle mass, genetics, and other factors.

Q2: Should I eat exactly my TDEE to maintain weight?
A: Use it as a starting point and adjust based on weekly weight trends.

Q3: How often should I recalculate my TDEE?
A: Recalculate after significant weight changes (±5kg) or activity level changes.

Q4: Why does age affect calorie needs?
A: Metabolism generally slows with age due to decreasing muscle mass.

Q5: Can I use this for weight loss?
A: Yes, subtract 300-500 kcal from TDEE for gradual weight loss (0.5-1kg/week).