Calorie Calculator
Calculate your daily calorie needs
About Our Calorie Calculator
Scientific Foundation
This calculator uses three validated equations to estimate your daily calorie needs:
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Mifflin-St Jeor Equation (most accurate for most people)
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Revised Harris-Benedict Equation (historical benchmark)
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Katch-McArdle Formula (best for those who know body fat percentage)
Key Metrics Calculated
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BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate): Calories burned at complete rest
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TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure): Maintenance calories including activity
Weight Loss Guidance
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500 calorie/day deficit ≈ 1 lb (0.45 kg) weight loss per week
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Never exceed 1,000 calorie/day deficit without medical supervision
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Zigzag calorie cycling helps prevent metabolic adaptation
Why It Works
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Accounts for age, gender, height, weight, and activity level
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Based on peer-reviewed metabolic research
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Provides personalized targets (not generic 2,000-calorie estimates)
Pro Tips for Best Results Combine with nutrient-dense foods (vegetables, lean proteins)
Recalculate every 5-10 lbs of weight change
For accuracy, measure body fat % if possible
Sample Calorie Needs
Activity Level | 130 lb Woman | 180 lb Man |
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Sedentary | 1,600-1,800 | 2,200-2,400 |
Active | 2,000-2,200 | 2,800-3,000 |
Remember: All calculations are estimates. Individual results may vary based on muscle mass, genetics, and other factors. Consult a healthcare provider before making drastic dietary changes.
Check Out This BMI Calculator