Question 1

What is TDEE?

Accepted Answer

TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) is the total number of calories your body burns in a day, including your basal metabolic rate (BMR) and all physical activity. Eating at your TDEE maintains your current weight.

Question 2

What is the difference between BMR and TDEE?

Accepted Answer

BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is the calories your body needs at complete rest just to sustain vital functions. TDEE multiplies your BMR by an activity factor to account for the energy burned through movement and exercise.

Question 3

Which formula does this calculator use?

Accepted Answer

This calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, considered the most accurate TDEE formula for the general population by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Question 4

How many calories below TDEE should I eat to lose weight?

Accepted Answer

A deficit of 500 kcal per day below your TDEE results in approximately 0.5 kg (1 lb) of fat loss per week — a safe, sustainable rate. Deficits above 750 kcal/day risk muscle loss and metabolic adaptation.

Question 5

How accurate is the TDEE result?

Accepted Answer

TDEE formulas are estimates — individual results can vary by 10–15% due to genetics, muscle mass, sleep quality, and metabolic adaptation. Track your weight for 2–3 weeks and adjust calories if the result does not match expectations.