What is TDEE?
TDEE adds the major parts of daily energy expenditure together. A desk-based rest day and a physically demanding day will differ, so an activity-adjusted equation is best read as a typical-day estimate.
How TDEE is calculated
First, Mifflin–St Jeor estimates resting energy expenditure. The tool multiplies it by a conventional activity factor: sedentary 1.2, lightly active 1.375, moderately active 1.55, very active 1.725, or extra active 1.9. These broad bands are assumptions, not measurements.
How to use this calculator
- 1Enter age, height, weight, and the equation's sex coefficient.
- 2Choose activity that reflects your whole week, including work and everyday movement.
- 3Calculate your estimated TDEE and use it as a maintenance reference.
Understanding your result
A TDEE result describes approximate daily expenditure, not a calorie ceiling. If average intake and average weight remain stable over several weeks, that observed pattern helps you assess whether the estimate fits you.
Assumptions & limitations
- Activity categories cannot capture individual movement efficiency, exercise intensity, or metabolic adaptation.
- Illness, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and unusual body composition can make population equations less suitable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between BMR and TDEE?+
BMR estimates energy used at rest. TDEE adds the energy associated with activity and other daily processes, so it is usually higher.
Which activity factor should I choose?+
Consider your job, walking, chores, and exercise together. If two bands seem plausible, compare both and use your observed intake and weight trend to refine the estimate.
Does TDEE change after weight loss?+
It often decreases as a smaller body requires less energy. Changes in movement and metabolic adaptation also affect expenditure.
Why does my watch report a different TDEE?+
Wearables and equations use different inputs and assumptions. Neither directly measures all daily energy expenditure, so disagreement is expected.
