1. What is the Mifflin-St Jeor Equation?

The Mifflin-St Jeor equation calculates Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), which represents the number of calories your body needs at complete rest. It's considered one of the most accurate BMR formulas for healthy individuals.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation:

Where:

• \( Weight \) — Body weight in kilograms
• \( Height \) — Height in centimeters
• \( Age \) — Age in years
• \( Gender\_factor \) — +5 for males, -161 for females

Maintenance Calories: BMR is multiplied by an activity factor to estimate total daily energy expenditure (TDEE).

3. Importance of Maintenance Calories

Details: Knowing your maintenance calories helps with weight management - consuming more leads to weight gain, consuming less leads to weight loss. This calculation forms the basis for most diet plans.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kg, height in cm, age in years, select gender and activity level. For accurate results, use precise measurements and be honest about your activity level.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this calculator?
A: For most healthy individuals, it provides a good estimate (±10%). Those with very high muscle mass or obesity may need adjustments.

Q2: What's the difference between BMR and TDEE?
A: BMR is calories burned at complete rest. TDEE (maintenance calories) includes all daily activities and exercise.

Q3: Should I eat exactly my maintenance calories?
A: For weight maintenance, yes. For weight loss, eat 300-500 kcal less; for gain, eat 300-500 kcal more.

Q4: How often should I recalculate?
A: Recalculate after significant weight changes (±5kg) or changes in activity level.

Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: It may underestimate needs for athletes and overestimate for obese individuals. Not suitable for pregnant women.