Home
Back
Maintenance Calories Formula:
| From: | To: |
The maintenance calorie calculation estimates the number of calories a child needs to consume daily to maintain their current weight, based on their basal metabolic rate (BMR) and activity level. It uses the Schofield equation for BMR and adjusts for physical activity.
The calculator uses the maintenance calories formula:
Where:
Explanation: The equation accounts for the child's baseline energy needs (BMR) and adjusts for their activity level to estimate total daily energy expenditure.
Details: Accurate calorie estimation is crucial for ensuring proper growth and development in children, preventing both undernutrition and obesity.
Tips: Enter BMR in kcal/day (calculated separately using Schofield equations), select appropriate activity factor. All values must be valid (BMR > 0, activity factor between 1.2-1.9).
Q1: What are the Schofield equations for BMR?
A: Schofield equations are age- and sex-specific equations that estimate BMR based on weight. Different equations exist for different age groups.
Q2: How to determine activity factor?
A: 1.2 (sedentary), 1.375 (light activity 1-3 days/week), 1.55 (moderate activity 3-5 days/week), 1.725 (active 6-7 days/week), 1.9 (very active with physical job or training).
Q3: Are these calculations accurate for all children?
A: While generally accurate, individual variations exist. Consult a pediatric nutritionist for children with special needs or medical conditions.
Q4: How often should calculations be updated?
A: Recalculate every 3-6 months or after significant changes in weight or activity level.
Q5: Can this be used for weight management?
A: Yes, but any significant dietary changes for children should be supervised by healthcare professionals.