1. What is the Maintenance Calories Formula?

The Maintenance Calories formula calculates the number of calories needed to maintain current body weight based on Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and activity level. It provides an estimate of daily energy expenditure for weight maintenance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Maintenance Calories formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The equation accounts for the base metabolic rate multiplied by an activity factor that represents daily physical activity level.

3. Importance of Maintenance Calories Calculation

Details: Accurate maintenance calories estimation is crucial for weight management, nutrition planning, and designing appropriate diet and exercise programs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter BMR in kcal/day and Activity Factor (dimensionless). All values must be valid (BMR > 0, Activity Factor > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is BMR?
A: Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body needs to perform basic life-sustaining functions at rest.

Q2: How to determine Activity Factor?
A: Activity Factor typically ranges from 1.2 (sedentary) to 2.5 (very active). Consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate values.

Q3: Are maintenance calories the same for everyone?
A: No, maintenance calories vary based on age, gender, weight, height, and activity level.

Q4: How often should maintenance calories be recalculated?
A: Recalculate when there are significant changes in weight, activity level, or body composition.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for weight loss/gain planning?
A: Yes, maintenance calories serve as a baseline for creating calorie deficit/surplus plans for weight management.