How To Use Basal Metabolic Rate Calculator

What is Basal Metabolic Rate Calculator?

Basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the amount of energy (measured in calories) that the body needs to function while at rest. It is the minimum amount of energy required to keep the body alive and is influenced by factors such as age, sex, weight, and height.

A BMR calculator is a tool that estimates an individual’s BMR based on these factors.

How It Works

First, the Basal Metabolic Rate Calculator uses a formula known as the Harris-Benedict equation to measure the energy the body spends in a given day while at rest.

In other words, it’s the total calories the body consume just to stay alive. 

Second, the calculator Assigns a number to your physical activity level and multiplies it by your Basal Metabolic Rate to measure your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) or the amount of energy your body needs to maintain its weight.

BMR is often used as a starting point for determining an individual’s daily calorie needs, but it is not the only factor to consider. Other factors, such as physical activity level and goals for weight loss or gain, should also be taken into account.

Related: What Body Mass Index (BMI) Can Tell You

Some Considerations

• The St Jeor formula is a revised version of Harris-Benedict equation. You can use both as there is no significant difference between the two (1).
• The Basal Metabolic Rate is influenced by several factors such as gender, age, height, and weight.
• Lean muscles require more energy than fat and men have a higher BMR than women due to a higher lean muscle mass.
• However, as the body age and need less energy to function, this rate tends to decrease.

Why Knowing Your Basal Metabolic Rate is Important

Knowing your BMR can be helpful for a number of reasons. Understanding your BMR can help you:

1. Determine your daily calorie needs: By knowing your BMR and taking into account your activity level and goals, you can estimate the number of calories you need to consume each day to maintain, lose, or gain weight.
2. Make informed decisions about your diet: By knowing your BMR and daily calorie needs, you can make more informed decisions about the types and amounts of food you eat.
3. Monitor your progress: By tracking your BMR and daily calorie intake over time, you can see how your body is responding to changes in your diet and exercise routine.
4. Set realistic goals: Knowing your BMR can help you set realistic weight loss or gain goals and understand the types of changes you need to make to your diet and exercise routine to achieve those goals.

Keep in mind that BMR is only one factor to consider when it comes to understanding your body’s energy needs. Other factors, such as muscle mass, body fat percentage, and overall health, can also affect your daily calorie needs.

If you are serious about tracking your eating and exercise on a daily basis consider using a health app.

What about your BMR? Does it help you manage your diet?

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