TDEE Calculator – Free Daily Calorie Needs Calculator in 5 Steps | Calculator Protein

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TDEE Calculator – Enter Your Details

Provide accurate information for the most precise TDEE calculation

Your TDEE Results

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

Calories burned at rest

Total Daily Energy Expenditure

Weight Management Goals

Weight Loss: cal/day

500 calorie deficit

Weight Gain: cal/day

500 calorie surplus

How TDEE Calculator Works – Mifflin-St Jeor Formula

Our TDEE calculator uses the scientifically-validated Mifflin-St Jeor equation to determine your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), then multiplies it by your activity factor to calculate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure.

The Mifflin-St Jeor Formula

For men: BMR = (10 × weight in kg) + (6.25 × height in cm) – (5 × age in years) + 5

For women: BMR = (10 × weight in kg) + (6.25 × height in cm) – (5 × age in years) – 161

Activity Multipliers

  • Sedentary: 1.2 (Little or no exercise)
  • Lightly Active: 1.375 (Exercise 1-3 days per week)
  • Moderately Active: 1.55 (Exercise 3-5 days per week)
  • Very Active: 1.725 (Exercise 6-7 days per week)
  • Extremely Active: 1.9 (Physical job or training twice daily)

What is TDEE?

TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) represents the total number of calories your body burns in a day. This includes:

  • BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate): Calories burned at rest for basic functions
  • NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis): Calories burned through daily activities
  • EAT (Exercise Activity Thermogenesis): Calories burned during structured exercise
  • TEF (Thermic Effect of Food): Calories burned digesting food

Using Your TDEE for Goals

Once you know your TDEE, you can use it to reach your fitness goals:

  • Weight Loss: Consume 300-500 calories below your TDEE
  • Maintenance: Consume calories equal to your TDEE
  • Weight Gain: Consume 300-500 calories above your TDEE

TDEE Calculator – Related Tools & Resources

TDEE Calculator FAQ – Common Questions Answered

What is the difference between BMR and TDEE?

BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is the number of calories your body burns at rest to maintain basic functions like breathing and circulation. TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) includes your BMR plus all calories burned through daily activities and exercise. Your TDEE is always higher than your BMR.

Is the Mifflin-St Jeor equation accurate?

Yes, the Mifflin-St Jeor equation is one of the most accurate and scientifically validated formulas for calculating BMR. Studies show it’s more accurate than older formulas like Harris-Benedict, with an accuracy rate of approximately 90%.

How should I use my TDEE for weight loss?

To lose weight, consume 300-500 calories below your TDEE. A 500-calorie deficit typically results in losing about 0.5 kg (1 lb) per week. Combine this with adequate protein intake (0.7-1g per pound of body weight) and strength training to preserve muscle mass.

Can my TDEE change over time?

Yes, your TDEE can change due to several factors: weight changes, aging, changes in muscle mass, metabolic adaptation, and changes in activity level. It’s recommended to recalculate your TDEE every 4-6 weeks if you’re actively trying to change your body composition.

Is this calculator suitable for athletes?

This calculator works well for most people, including active individuals. However, elite athletes with very low body fat or those doing extensive training may need to adjust results slightly upward. For highly individualized calculations, consider consulting a sports nutritionist.

How accurate is this calculator?

The Mifflin-St Jeor formula typically has an accuracy of ±10-20%, which is excellent for an estimation formula. Individual variation can occur based on factors like genetics, metabolism, muscle mass, and body composition. Use the result as a starting point and adjust based on real-world results.

Shady Elbody

Reviewed & Written by

Shady Elbody

SEO Specialist · Protein Nutrition Researcher · Founder, CalculatorProtein.com

Shady Elbody is an SEO specialist and the founder of CalculatorProtein.com, a protein calculator resource used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide. He combines deep expertise in search optimisation with evidence-based sports nutrition, building every calculator and guide around ACSM, ISSN, and current PubMed-indexed research.

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