1. What is Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)?

BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is the number of calories your body needs to accomplish its most basic (basal) life-sustaining functions at rest. This includes breathing, circulation, cell production, nutrient processing, protein synthesis, and ion transport.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor Equation:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms
• \( height \) — Height in centimeters
• \( age \) — Age in years
• \( +5 \) — Constant for men
• \( -161 \) — Constant for women

Explanation: The equation accounts for the fact that men typically have more muscle mass than women of the same weight, and that metabolism slows with age.

3. Importance of BMR Calculation

Details: Knowing your BMR helps you estimate your daily calorie needs for weight maintenance, loss, or gain. It's the foundation for calculating Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) when combined with activity level.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kg, height in cm, age in years, and select your gender. For accurate results, measure your weight and height rather than estimating.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is the BMR calculation?
A: The Mifflin-St Jeor Equation is about 90% accurate for most people, though individual variations in body composition can affect results.

Q2: What's the difference between BMR and TDEE?
A: BMR is calories burned at complete rest, while TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) includes all daily activities and exercise.

Q3: Does muscle mass affect BMR?
A: Yes, muscle tissue burns more calories at rest than fat tissue, so people with more muscle mass typically have higher BMRs.

Q4: How often should I recalculate my BMR?
A: Recalculate whenever your weight changes significantly (5+ kg) or annually as you age.

Q5: Can I use BMR for weight loss?
A: Yes, knowing your BMR helps create a calorie deficit plan. Typically, consuming 300-500 kcal below your TDEE leads to gradual weight loss.