Calorie Calculator
Estimate how many calories you need each day to maintain, lose or gain weight, based on the Mifflin-St Jeor equation.
How this calculator works
We first estimate your resting energy expenditure — the calories your body uses at rest — using the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, which research shows is one of the most accurate formulas for most adults. We then multiply it by an activity factor to estimate your total daily needs.
Using your result
- To lose weight gradually, a deficit of about 500 calories a day is a common starting point.
- To gain weight, add a similar amount.
- Your actual needs vary. Track how your weight changes over a few weeks and adjust.
Who shouldn't rely on this
Calorie estimates aren't suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, for children, or for people with eating disorders or certain medical conditions. Talk with a doctor or dietitian instead.
Medically reviewed by Daniel Reyes, MS, RDUpdated on
Sources
- Mifflin MD, et al. (1990). A new predictive equation for resting energy expenditure in healthy individuals. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/51.2.241