Question 1

What is BMR?

Accepted Answer

Your basal metabolic rate is the number of calories your body burns at complete rest. It represents the energy needed for basic functions like breathing, circulation, and cell production.

Question 2

What is TDEE?

Accepted Answer

Total Daily Energy Expenditure is your daily calorie burn after adjusting for activity level. It's calculated by multiplying your BMR by an activity multiplier (1.2 to 1.9).

Question 3

Which formula is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

Mifflin-St Jeor is generally the most validated for the general population. Katch-McArdle is most accurate if you know your body fat percentage, as it accounts for lean body mass.

Question 4

How many calories should I eat to lose weight?

Accepted Answer

Typically 250–500 fewer calories than your TDEE, depending on your desired rate of loss. A 500 kcal deficit results in approximately 1 pound of weight loss per week.

Question 5

Can I use this for bulking or cutting?

Accepted Answer

Yes—set a calorie surplus (typically +250 to +500 kcal) for bulking or a deficit for cutting. The calculator provides targets for both.

Calorie Calculator