1. What is the Mayo Clinic Calorie Equation?

The Mayo Clinic calorie equation estimates daily calorie needs based on basal metabolic rate (BMR) and activity level. It provides a practical way to determine energy requirements for weight maintenance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mayo Clinic equation:

Where:

• \( BMR \) — Basal Metabolic Rate (kcal/day)
• \( Activity\_factor \) — Multiplier based on activity level (unitless)

Activity Factors:

• 1.2 — Sedentary (little or no exercise)
• 1.375 — Lightly active (light exercise 1-3 days/week)
• 1.55 — Moderately active (moderate exercise 3-5 days/week)
• 1.725 — Very active (hard exercise 6-7 days/week)
• 1.9 — Extra active (very hard exercise & physical job)

3. Importance of Calorie Calculation

Details: Accurate calorie estimation is crucial for weight management, whether maintaining, losing, or gaining weight. It helps create appropriate diet plans.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your BMR in kcal/day and select your activity level. For weight loss, reduce calculated calories by 500 kcal/day for ~1 lb/week loss.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I calculate my BMR?
A: Use the Mifflin-St Jeor equation: For men: (10 × weight in kg) + (6.25 × height in cm) - (5 × age) + 5. For women: (10 × weight in kg) + (6.25 × height in cm) - (5 × age) - 161.

Q2: What are typical calorie needs?
A: Average adult needs 1,600-3,000 kcal/day depending on size, gender, age, and activity level.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate but individual variations exist. Monitor weight changes and adjust as needed.

Q4: Should I eat back exercise calories?
A: The activity factor already accounts for exercise. Only eat additional calories if doing extra unaccounted activity.

Q5: How often should I recalculate?
A: Recalculate after significant weight changes (±10 lbs) or activity level changes.