1. What is Total Daily Energy Expenditure?

Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) is the total number of calories you burn in a day, including your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and calories burned through physical activity. It's a crucial metric 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

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 TDEE Calculation

Details: Knowing your TDEE helps in creating effective weight loss, maintenance, or muscle gain plans. It serves as the foundation for determining your daily calorie needs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your BMR (calculated separately or measured) and select your activity level. For accurate results, be honest about your activity level.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is TDEE different from BMR?
A: BMR accounts only for calories burned at rest, while TDEE includes all calories burned through activity and digestion.

Q2: How often should I recalculate my TDEE?
A: Recalculate whenever your weight changes significantly (5+ lbs) or your activity level changes substantially.

Q3: Are the activity factors accurate for everyone?
A: They're estimates. Individual variation exists based on genetics, body composition, and exercise intensity.

Q4: Can I use this for weight loss?
A: Yes, consuming fewer calories than your TDEE leads to weight loss, while consuming more leads to weight gain.

Q5: What's the most accurate way to determine my TDEE?
A: While calculators provide estimates, the most accurate method is tracking calorie intake and weight changes over time.