Research suggests that the Mifflin-St Jeor equation is more accurate.īoth equations help you to determine your basal metabolic rate or BMR. The numbers you get from each formula will be similar but not exactly the same. There are two primary formulas used by nutrition experts: the Harris-Benedict equation and Mifflin-St Jeor equation. You can also estimate your target calorie intake number using a formula. These calculators give you a target calorie intake number for weight loss, maintenance or gain and take into account a timeline for your goal. Some calculators, like the one provided by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), will also take into account your weight goals.

The calculator takes your age, weight, gender, body size and activity level into account to determine your target number of calories for weight maintenance. The easiest way to get your calorie intake number is to use an online calculator like the one provided by the USDA. There are two main ways to get your calorie intake number. But some factors are out of your control, such as your age and gender. Some are in your control, such as your activity level. The number of calories per day that you need will depend on a variety of factors. You need this energy to perform all of your daily activities, both voluntary (such as walking or eating) and involuntary (such as breathing and circulation). Your body turns the food that you eat into calories, and the calories are used for energy.

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