Calorie Calculator
Calculate your daily calorie needs for maintenance, weight loss, or gain.
Your Estimated Daily Calories
Mild Weight Loss (-0.5 lbs/week): 0 calories/day
Weight Loss (-1 lbs/week): 0 calories/day
Mild Weight Gain (+0.5 lbs/week): 0 calories/day
Weight Gain (+1 lbs/week): 0 calories/day
How to Use This Calculator
Select Gender & Age
Choose your gender and enter your current age in years.
Input Weight & Height
Enter your current weight in pounds and height in inches.
Choose Activity Level
Select the option that best describes your daily physical activity.
Get Calorie Targets
Receive instant estimates for maintenance, weight loss, and weight gain.
About the Calorie Calculator
Our Calorie Calculator is a powerful tool designed to help you understand your body\'s energy needs. It uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, a widely recognized formula, to estimate your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and then factors in your activity level to determine your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE). This TDEE represents the approximate number of calories you burn in a day.
By knowing your TDEE, you can set informed goals for weight management. Whether you aim to maintain your current weight, lose a few pounds, or gain muscle mass, our calculator provides clear calorie targets to guide your dietary choices. Remember, these are estimates, and individual needs may vary based on metabolism, body composition, and other factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is BMR?
A: Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body needs to perform basic, life-sustaining functions (like breathing, circulation, and cell production) when at rest.
Q: What is TDEE?
A: Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) is the total number of calories your body burns in a 24-hour period, including your BMR and the calories burned during physical activity.
Q: How accurate is this calculator?
A: Our calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, which is considered one of the most accurate formulas for estimating calorie needs. However, individual results can vary based on genetics, body composition, and other factors. It provides a strong starting point for your goals.
Q: Can I use this for bodybuilding or extreme weight loss?
A: This calculator provides general guidelines. For specific dietary plans related to bodybuilding, extreme weight loss, or medical conditions, it\'s always best to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional.
Q: Why are there different calorie targets for weight loss/gain?
A: To lose weight, you need to consume fewer calories than you burn (a calorie deficit). To gain weight, you need to consume more calories than you burn (a calorie surplus). The targets provided are common recommendations for gradual, sustainable changes.
Q: Does activity level significantly impact calorie needs?
A: Yes, physical activity is a major component of your daily energy expenditure. The more active you are, the more calories your body burns, and thus, your calorie needs will be higher.
Q: Is this calculator suitable for children?
A: No, this calculator is designed for adults. Children\'s calorie needs are different and vary significantly based on growth and development. Please consult a pediatrician for children\'s nutritional guidance.