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Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) Formula:
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The Harris-Benedict equation estimates basal metabolic rate (BMR) for women, which represents the number of calories your body needs at complete rest to maintain basic physiological functions.
The calculator uses the Harris-Benedict equation for women:
Where:
Explanation: This equation calculates your basal metabolic rate (BMR), which is the number of calories your body needs to perform basic life-sustaining functions at complete rest.
Details: Understanding your daily caloric needs is essential for weight management, whether your goal is weight loss, maintenance, or gain. This calculation provides a baseline for determining appropriate calorie intake.
Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms, height in centimeters, and age in years. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age between 1-120).
Q1: Is this formula only for women?
A: Yes, this specific formula is designed specifically for women. Men should use a different equation: Calories = 66 + (13.7 × weight) + (5 × height) - (6.8 × age).
Q2: Does this account for activity level?
A: No, this calculation provides your basal metabolic rate (BMR). To estimate total daily energy expenditure, multiply your BMR by an activity factor (sedentary: 1.2, lightly active: 1.375, moderately active: 1.55, very active: 1.725, extra active: 1.9).
Q3: How accurate is this formula?
A: The Harris-Benedict equation provides a reasonable estimate for most people, but individual variations in metabolism mean it may not be 100% accurate for everyone.
Q4: Should I use this for weight loss?
A: This calculation gives you a starting point. For weight loss, you would typically consume fewer calories than your total daily energy expenditure, creating a calorie deficit.
Q5: How often should I recalculate my caloric needs?
A: You should recalculate whenever your weight changes significantly (5+ kg), or at least every 6 months as your metabolism changes with age.