Health

Calorie requirement calculator

Basal and total metabolic rate according to Mifflin-St-Jeor, with activity factor.

Updated on Apr 21, 2026 Calculator, calculation path and examples on one page

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Calculator

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Calculation path

Step by step

  1. Calculate basal metabolic rate

    Formula: Mifflin St Jeor

    Result: 1,738 kcal

  2. Calculate total requirements

    Formula: Basal metabolic rate × activity factor

    Values inserted: 1,738 × 1,550

    Result: 2,693 kcal

Instructions

How to use this calculator correctly

How to use the calculator

  • Enter gender, age, weight and height.
  • Choose the appropriate activity level.

How to read the result

  • Basal metabolic rate is the need for rest.
  • Total requirement is the approximate daily requirement in everyday life.

Limits of the calculation

  • Individual metabolic differences, illnesses and sports phases are not modeled separately.

Related guide: Correctly classify BMI, calorie requirement and calorie deficit

Examples

Typical calculations

Man, 32 years old, 78 kg, 178 cm.

Moderately active

Total requirements: 2,693 kcal

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Woman, 29 years old, 64 kg, 168 cm.

Mildly active

Total requirements: 1,903 kcal

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Man, 40 years old, 90 kg, 182 cm.

Very active

Total requirements: 3,178 kcal

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What formula does the calculator use?

The initial version uses the Mifflin-St-Jeor formula as a standard.

What is the difference between basal metabolic rate and total requirement?

The basal metabolic rate describes the requirement at rest, the total requirement takes activity into account in everyday life.

Is the value exact?

No. It is a plausible estimate, not a laboratory determination.

Why does the activity factor play a big role?

Because energy consumption and lifestyle can vary greatly.

Can I use the calculator for diet or weight loss?

Yes, as a guide. The combination with the calorie deficit calculator is practical.

Related calculators

Continue seamlessly

BMI calculator

Calculate BMI from weight and height and classify carefully.

Sources and notes

Rule status and context

Formula
Mifflin-St-Jeor as a standard formula for basal metabolic rate.