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TDEE Calculator

Calculate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure based on age, weight, height, and activity level.

Free TDEE Calculator – Calculate Your Total Daily Energy Expenditure Online

Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) represents the total number of calories your body burns in a single day, combining your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) with your physical activity level. Understanding your TDEE is the cornerstone of any effective nutrition plan, whether your goal is weight loss, muscle gain, or simply maintaining your current physique. Unlike static calorie recommendations, TDEE provides a personalized estimate tailored to your unique body composition and lifestyle.

Our free TDEE calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, widely recognized by nutritionists and sports scientists as the most accurate formula for estimating resting metabolic rate. The equation takes into account your weight, height, age, and gender to calculate your BMR, then multiplies it by an activity factor ranging from sedentary (office worker with no exercise) to very active (intense training twice daily). This approach gives you a reliable baseline for planning your daily calorie intake.

Once you know your TDEE, you can create a strategic calorie deficit or surplus to reach your goals. For safe weight loss, most experts recommend a moderate deficit of 500 calories per day, which translates to roughly 0.5 kg (1 lb) of fat loss per week. For lean muscle gain, a modest surplus of 250-500 calories above TDEE, paired with resistance training, is typically recommended. Our calculator instantly shows you calorie targets for five different goals, from aggressive fat loss to rapid muscle building.

Keep in mind that TDEE is an estimate and individual results may vary based on genetics, hormonal factors, body composition, and the thermic effect of food. It is best used as a starting point. Track your weight and energy levels over 2-3 weeks, then adjust your intake up or down by 100-200 calories as needed. For personalized advice, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional who can factor in your medical history and specific requirements.

FAQ

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FAQ

What is TDEE and why does it matter?+
TDEE stands for Total Daily Energy Expenditure. It is the total number of calories your body burns per day, including your basal metabolic rate, physical activity, and the thermic effect of food. Knowing your TDEE helps you set accurate calorie goals for weight loss, maintenance, or muscle gain.
How is TDEE different from BMR?+
BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is the number of calories your body burns at complete rest to maintain basic functions like breathing and circulation. TDEE includes BMR plus all additional calories burned through physical activity, exercise, and digesting food. TDEE is always higher than BMR.
Which equation does this calculator use?+
This calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, which is considered the most accurate formula for estimating resting metabolic rate by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. For men: BMR = (10 x weight in kg) + (6.25 x height in cm) - (5 x age) + 5. For women: BMR = (10 x weight in kg) + (6.25 x height in cm) - (5 x age) - 161.
How do I choose the right activity level?+
Choose Sedentary if you have a desk job and do no exercise. Light is for 1-3 days of light exercise per week. Moderate covers 3-5 days of moderate exercise. Active is for 6-7 days of hard exercise. Very Active is for athletes who train intensely twice per day or have a physically demanding job combined with exercise.
How many calories should I eat to lose weight?+
For safe, sustainable weight loss, aim for a deficit of 500 calories below your TDEE, which typically results in about 0.5 kg (1 lb) of fat loss per week. Avoid going below 1,200 calories per day for women or 1,500 for men without medical supervision, as this can lead to nutrient deficiencies and metabolic slowdown.

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