Free TDEE estimate

TDEE Calculator

Enter your details below to see an estimate of your daily energy expenditure. The result is a starting point, not a prescription.

How the estimate works

What the numbers assume

TDEE combines a resting energy estimate with an activity multiplier. Each step adds an assumption, so it helps to know what those assumptions are.

Resting energy with Mifflin-St Jeor

The Mifflin-St Jeor equation estimates basal metabolic rate from weight, height, age, and sex. It is widely used because it tends to perform well for many adults, though individual bodies vary.

How multipliers shape the result

The resting estimate is multiplied by an activity factor that reflects typical daily movement. A small change in the multiplier can shift the total noticeably, which is why choosing a realistic level matters.

Why the estimate is a starting point

Formulas cannot measure body composition, hormones, or day-to-day variation. Comparing your intake with your real-world results over several weeks is often more informative than the first calculation alone.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

How accurate is a TDEE estimate?

It is an estimate built on averages. Many people land within a range of the true figure, but individual results depend on factors the formula cannot see.

What does the activity factor mean?

It is a multiplier for typical daily movement, from mostly seated to very active. Picking the level that matches your ordinary week usually gives the most sensible starting point.

Should I eat exactly the TDEE number?

Not necessarily. The figure is a reference point. Any change in intake is a personal decision, and questions about nutrition are best discussed with a qualified professional.

Why does the result change over time?

Body weight, activity, and routine shift. Recalculating after a meaningful change keeps the estimate aligned with your current situation.

How do I use tracking to adjust the estimate?

Log intake and body weight consistently for several weeks. Trends over time reveal more than any single day, and can suggest whether the starting estimate needs revisiting.

Does the calculator replace medical advice?

No. The calculator and this content are educational only. They are not medical or nutritional prescriptions, so please consult a qualified clinician for personal guidance.