The TDEE Calculator is only an estimate of Total Daily Energy Expenditure based upon factors including age, assigned sex, weight, height, and activity level. This calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation (Mifflin et al., 1990), which is recognized by the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics as the most accurate formula for estimating resting metabolic rate in healthy adults. TDEE is calculated by multiplying basal metabolic rate (BMR) by a Physical Activity Level (PAL) multiplier that accounts for exercise and daily movement.

The TDEE Calculator may not accurately reflect the energy expenditure of individuals of a specific race/ethnic group, those with high muscle mass or very low body fat, pregnant or lactating women, children, adolescents, the elderly, or those with specific health conditions such as metabolic disorders, thyroid dysfunction, or chronic illnesses. This calculator should not be used as a sole diagnostic tool.

The calculator provides weight loss estimates based on established caloric deficit principles: a 500-calorie daily deficit for 1 lb/week loss and a 1,000-calorie deficit for 2 lb/week loss. The calculator enforces minimum calorie thresholds of 1,200 calories/day for females and 1,500 calories/day for males, as recommended by the National Institutes of Health, to ensure adequate nutrition and prevent adverse health effects.

TDEE estimates do not account for individual metabolic variations, adaptive thermogenesis during weight loss, or the thermic effect of specific macronutrient compositions. The calculator does not determine eligibility for any weight loss medications or treatments. Consultation with a healthcare provider is required before beginning any weight loss program or making significant dietary changes.

Medical References:

• Mifflin, M.D., St Jeor, S.T., Hill, L.A., et al. (1990). A new predictive equation for resting energy expenditure in healthy individuals. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 51(2), 241-247.
• American Council on Exercise. (2024). Total Daily Energy Expenditure Guidelines.
• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2024). Position on Interventions for Treatment of Overweight and Obesity.
• National Institutes of Health. (2023). Clinical Guidelines on Weight Management.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Healthy Weight Loss Recommendations.