TDEE Calculator
Calculate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure based on BMR and activity level. Get personalized calorie goals for weight loss, maintenance, or gain.
Your Information
How It Works
Step 1: Calculate BMR (Mifflin-St Jeor)
Women: BMR = 10×weight + 6.25×height - 5×age - 161
Step 2: Apply Activity Multiplier
Step 3: Adjust for Goal
1 kg of fat ≈ 7700 calories
Example
Example: Male, 30 years, 175 cm, 75 kg, Moderately Active
BMR: 10×75 + 6.25×175 - 5×30 + 5 = 1694 cal/day
TDEE: 1694 × 1.55 = 2626 cal/day (maintenance)
For 0.5kg/week loss: 2626 - 500 = 2126 cal/day
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TDEE? ▼
Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) is the total number of calories you burn in a day, including BMR (calories at rest) plus activity. It represents your maintenance calorie level.
How accurate is TDEE calculation? ▼
TDEE estimates are typically within 10-15% of actual expenditure. Individual variation exists due to genetics, muscle mass, and NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis). Use TDEE as a starting point and adjust based on results.
Should I eat back exercise calories? ▼
No, if using TDEE method. Your activity level already accounts for exercise. Only eat back calories if using BMR without activity multiplier. TDEE method is simpler for consistent schedules.
How fast should I lose weight? ▼
0.5-1 kg per week is sustainable and preserves muscle mass. Faster loss (>1 kg/week) risks muscle loss and metabolic adaptation. Slower loss (0.25 kg/week) is easier to maintain long-term.
Why am I not losing weight at my calculated deficit? ▼
Common reasons: overestimating activity level, underestimating food intake, water retention, or metabolic adaptation. Track weight for 2-3 weeks before adjusting. Reduce calories by 100-200/day if no progress.
References & Sources
Am J Clin Nutr. 1990 Feb;51(2):241-7
Comprehensive TDEE calculation and activity level guidelines
Research-backed tool for weight management planning
Overview of BMR and TDEE calculation methods