Explain it like I'm 12
Calorie Calculator estimates BMR, maintenance calories and a goal-adjusted daily calorie target from visible inputs.
Calorie Calculator
Calorie Calculator estimates daily calorie target from age, sex, weight, height, activity and weekly weight-change goal.
Source references
- Mifflin et al. resting metabolic rate equation — BMR equation source
Formula
Mifflin-St Jeor BMR = 10w + 6.25h - 5a + sex constant. Maintenance = BMR x activity. Goal adjustment = kg/week x 7700 / 7.
Worked example
80 kg, 178 cm, age 35, male and activity 1.45 gives maintenance from BMR x activity, then adjusts for the weekly goal.
Professional note
Treat the result as a starting target and compare it with real body-weight trend data over several weeks.
Regional and unit assumptions
Health education estimate using metric inputs. Seek professional advice for medical, eating-disorder, pregnancy, adolescent or clinical needs.
Assumptions and limitations
- Uses Mifflin-St Jeor and a 7700 kcal/kg planning rule.
- Activity factor and goal change are estimates.
- Not medical, dietetic or sports-performance advice.
Methodology & Accuracy
How this calculator is checked
CalculationTime pages are built around visible arithmetic: the formula, assumptions, worked example and practical limitations are shown so the result can be checked rather than simply trusted.
Formula used
Mifflin-St Jeor BMR = 10w + 6.25h - 5a + sex constant. Maintenance = BMR x activity. Goal adjustment = kg/week x 7700 / 7.
Standard or basis
Health education estimate using metric inputs. Seek professional advice for medical, eating-disorder, pregnancy, adolescent or clinical needs.
Where a calculator follows a named legal, trade or industry standard, that standard is cited visibly. Otherwise the page uses transparent general arithmetic and states its limits.Master's Tip
Treat the result as a starting target and compare it with real body-weight trend data over several weeks.
Related calculators
Questions
Is TDEE exact?
No. It estimates average daily energy expenditure. Real expenditure varies by body composition, training, health and tracking accuracy.
What activity factor should I use?
Use a conservative factor first, then adjust after tracking weight and intake over time.
Calculation note
Calorie estimates are useful when the formula and activity assumption are visible enough to adjust.
Calorie targets needs assumptions beside the result
The calculator keeps the input values, formula trail and limitation note visible so the result can be checked later instead of treated as a magic number.
The printable record is part of the calculator
A useful result is one that can be compared with a statement, plan, workout log, timetable or worksheet after the page is closed.