BMR vs TDEE — What's the Difference?
Your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the calories your body burns at complete rest to keep organs functioning. Your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) multiplies BMR by an activity factor - this is your true daily calorie burn including exercise and movement.
How Many Calories Should I Eat to Lose Weight?
Eating ~500 kcal below your TDEE per day creates a deficit that produces roughly 0.5 kg (1 lb) of weight loss per week - a safe, sustainable rate. Going much lower risks muscle loss and nutrient deficiencies.
How Many Calories to Maintain or Gain Weight?
Eating at your TDEE keeps your weight stable. A surplus of 300-500 kcal above TDEE supports gradual muscle gain. Use your TDEE from the calculator above as your personal baseline.