Calorie Calculator
Estimate daily caloric needs
This tool estimates how many calories your body likely uses each day, based on your age, sex, height, weight, and activity level. It's a rough starting point, not a precise prescription.
Basal Metabolic Rate
1737 cal
Calories at rest
Daily Caloric Needs
2693 cal
To maintain weight
Lose Weight
2193 cal
-500 cal/day
Maintain
2693 cal
No change
Gain Weight
3193 cal
+500 cal/day
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your age, sex, height, and weight.
- Choose the activity level that best matches your typical week.
- Review your resting calorie burn (BMR), your daily maintenance calories, and the targets for losing or gaining weight.
Why Use This Calculator?
- Getting a ballpark maintenance figure before adjusting your eating.
- Comparing how activity level changes the estimate.
- Setting a reference point, not a strict target.
Real-World Examples
A sedentary 30-year-old man
A 5'10", 175 lb man who's mostly sedentary might need around 2,100 calories a day to maintain weight; a moderately active version of the same person might need closer to 2,700.
Where the estimate comes from
The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation to estimate resting energy, then multiplies by an activity factor. These equations are averages drawn from population studies, so your real needs can differ.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the estimate?
It's an estimate based on population averages. Individual metabolism, body composition, and health conditions can move your real needs by hundreds of calories.
Should I eat exactly this many calories?
No. Use it as a starting reference and adjust based on hunger, energy, and results — ideally with a professional's input.
Does it account for a medical condition?
No. Conditions like thyroid disorders, pregnancy, or certain medications affect calorie needs. A clinician can give you a personalized figure.
Important Disclaimer
Calorie estimates are general approximations from population-based formulas and are not medical or nutritional advice. Your individual needs vary. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing your diet.
Privacy
Your entries stay in your browser and aren't stored or transmitted.
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