1. What is Daily Calorie Intake?

Daily calorie intake represents the number of calories your body needs each day to maintain your current weight, based on your basal metabolic rate (BMR) and activity level. This calculation helps you understand your energy requirements for weight maintenance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor Equation for BMR and multiplies by activity factor:

Where BMR is calculated as:

• For men: \( BMR = 10 \times weight + 6.25 \times height - 5 \times age + 5 \)
• For women: \( BMR = 10 \times weight + 6.25 \times height - 5 \times age - 161 \)

Activity Multipliers:

• Sedentary: 1.2 (little or no exercise)
• Lightly active: 1.375 (light exercise 1-3 days/week)
• Moderately active: 1.55 (moderate exercise 3-5 days/week)
• Very active: 1.725 (hard exercise 6-7 days/week)
• Extra active: 1.9 (very hard exercise, physical job)

3. Importance of Calorie Calculation

Details: Understanding your daily calorie needs is essential for weight management, whether you want to maintain, lose, or gain weight. It provides a scientific basis for creating effective nutrition plans.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms, height in centimeters, age in years, select your gender and activity level. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age between 1-120).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use Mifflin-St Jeor Equation?
A: The Mifflin-St Jeor Equation is considered one of the most accurate BMR formulas for the general population and is widely used by health professionals.

Q2: What if I want to lose weight?
A: To lose weight, create a calorie deficit by consuming 300-500 fewer calories than your maintenance level, combined with regular exercise.

Q3: How often should I recalculate my calorie needs?
A: Recalculate every 4-6 weeks or whenever your weight, activity level, or goals change significantly.

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: Individual variations in metabolism, medical conditions, and body composition can affect actual calorie needs. This provides an estimate, not an exact measurement.

Q5: Should pregnant or breastfeeding women use this calculator?
A: Pregnant and breastfeeding women have different nutritional needs and should consult healthcare providers for personalized advice.