Educational estimate for adults, not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment target. Review the method and limitations and discuss individual health questions with a qualified clinician.
Your result
How this calculation works
Resting kcal/day = 10 × kg + 6.25 × cm − 5 × age + s, where s is 5 for men and −161 for women. Maintenance = resting estimate × activity factor.
Estimate resting energy using the Mifflin–St Jeor equation, then apply an activity multiplier for an approximate maintenance intake.
How to use this calculator
- Enter or choose sex coefficient used by the equation.
- Enter or choose age (18+ only).
- Enter or choose height (cm).
- Enter or choose weight (kg).
- Enter or choose activity assumption.
- Select Calculate and review the result and assumptions.
Worked example
For a 30-year-old man at 70 kg and 175 cm, the resting estimate is 1,648.75 kcal/day. A 1.2 activity factor gives approximately 1,979 kcal/day.
Assumptions and limitations
Adult educational estimate only. The original equation was derived in adults aged 19–78; other adult ages are extrapolations. Not a weight-loss prescription; unsuitable for children, pregnancy/breastfeeding, eating-disorder care, or clinical nutrition decisions. Activity multipliers are approximations.
Formula references
Frequently asked questions
Are these exact calorie needs?
No. Individual energy needs can differ substantially. The result combines a predictive equation with a rough activity assumption.
Does this prescribe a calorie deficit?
No. It estimates maintenance only and does not recommend a weight-loss intake.