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2025 UpdatedEvidence-BasedFormula Guide20 minUpdated December 3, 2025

Daily Calorie Needs Calculator: What Are TDEE and BMR? 2025 Guide

Complete guide to understanding Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) and Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). Learn how to calculate your daily calorie needs using evidence-based 2025 formulas.

HealthCalc Pro Research Desk
20 min read
Evidence-Based
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Medical Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet, exercise routine, or health management plan.

Table of Contents

Key Findings

  • 1. BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) accounts for 60-75% of total daily energy expenditure and represents calories burned at complete rest for basic bodily functions. The Mifflin-St Jeor equation is the most accurate BMR formula, accurate within ±10% for most individuals (Source: doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/82.5.941).
  • 2. TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) is your complete daily calorie burn including BMR, physical activity, digestion, and daily movement. TDEE = BMR × Activity Factor (1.2-1.9). A 2024 systematic review found that TDEE estimates are accurate within ±15% when activity factors are correctly selected (Source: doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqab270).
  • 3. Physical activity accounts for 15-30% of TDEE, while the thermic effect of food (TEF) contributes 10%, and non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) adds 5-15%. Understanding these components helps optimize calorie targets for weight management goals.
Evidence Grade: A (Multiple systematic reviews and validated equations)Last Evidence Update: November 2025

This comprehensive guide synthesizes evidence from metabolic research, nutrition science, and exercise physiology to answer: What are TDEE and BMR, and how do I calculate my daily calorie needs? We explain the difference between Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE), provide step-by-step calculation methods using validated formulas, and discuss how to adjust calorie targets for weight loss, maintenance, or muscle gain. The guide addresses common misconceptions, accuracy limitations, and practical implementation strategies. Quarterly updates incorporate new research on metabolic rate measurement and energy balance.

Calculate Your Daily Calorie Needs

Use our interactive calorie calculator to determine your BMR, TDEE, and personalized daily calorie needs based on your activity level and goals.

Definitions, Scope & Historical Context

Terminology Clarification

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body burns at complete rest to maintain basic physiological functions such as breathing, circulation, cell production, brain function, and temperature regulation. BMR is measured under strict conditions: after 12 hours of fasting, in a thermoneutral environment, and in a supine position. BMR accounts for approximately 60-75% of total daily energy expenditure.

Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) is similar to BMR but measured under less strict conditions (typically after 3-4 hours of fasting, in a comfortable environment). RMR is usually 10-15% higher than BMR and is more practical for everyday use. Many calculators use RMR and BMR interchangeably, though technically they differ slightly.

Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) is the total number of calories your body burns in a 24-hour period, including:

  • BMR/RMR (60-75%): Calories burned at rest
  • Physical Activity (15-30%): Exercise and structured workouts
  • Thermic Effect of Food (TEF) (10%): Energy used to digest, absorb, and metabolize food
  • Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT) (5-15%): Daily movement like walking, fidgeting, standing

TDEE Formula: TDEE = BMR × Activity Factor (ranging from 1.2 for sedentary to 1.9 for extremely active individuals).

Historical Overview

  • 1919: Francis Gano Benedict and James Arthur Harris develop the Harris-Benedict equation, the first widely-used BMR formula based on measurements of 136 men and 103 women.
  • 1984: Mifflin-St Jeor equation is developed, showing improved accuracy (±10% vs ±15% for Harris-Benedict) based on more diverse population data.
  • 1990: Katch-McArdle formula is introduced, incorporating body fat percentage for more accurate BMR estimation in athletes and individuals with known body composition.
  • 2005: Cunningham equation is developed specifically for athletes, using lean body mass rather than total body weight.
  • 2010: Research establishes that TDEE can be accurately estimated using BMR × activity multipliers, validating the activity factor approach.
  • 2023: Systematic reviews confirm Mifflin-St Jeor as the most accurate general-population BMR formula, with Katch-McArdle preferred for athletes.
  • 2025: Integration of wearable device data enables real-time TDEE estimation, though formula-based calculations remain the gold standard for initial assessment.

Scope

This guide applies to healthy adults aged 18-65 years. Special considerations for:

  • Athletes: May require Katch-McArdle or Cunningham formulas that account for lean body mass
  • Older adults (65+): BMR decreases by 1-2% per decade after age 30
  • Pregnant/breastfeeding women: Require additional calories beyond TDEE
  • Individuals with medical conditions: Thyroid disorders, metabolic conditions may affect BMR
  • Extreme body compositions: Very high or very low body fat may affect formula accuracy

Conceptual Framework: Energy Balance

Energy Balance Equation

Energy Balance = Calories In - Calories Out

Calories In:

Food and beverages consumed

Calories Out (TDEE):

  • BMR/RMR (60-75%)
  • Physical Activity (15-30%)
  • Thermic Effect of Food (10%)
  • Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (5-15%)

Weight Loss: Calories In < TDEE (negative energy balance)
Weight Maintenance: Calories In = TDEE (energy balance)
Weight Gain: Calories In > TDEE (positive energy balance)

Components of TDEE

1. Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

60-75% of TDEE. Calories burned for basic life functions: breathing, circulation, cell production, brain function, temperature regulation.

Factors affecting BMR: Age, gender, body size, muscle mass, genetics, hormones (thyroid, growth hormone).

2. Physical Activity

15-30% of TDEE. Structured exercise and workouts. Most variable component.

Factors: Exercise type, intensity, duration, frequency, fitness level.

3. Thermic Effect of Food (TEF)

~10% of TDEE. Energy used to digest, absorb, and metabolize food.

Varies by macronutrient: Protein (20-30%), Carbohydrates (5-10%), Fats (0-3%).

4. Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT)

5-15% of TDEE. Daily movement: walking, fidgeting, standing, daily tasks.

Highly variable: Can differ by 200-800 calories/day between individuals.

BMR Calculation Formulas

Mifflin-St Jeor Equation (Most Accurate for General Population)

For Men:

BMR = (10 × weight kg) + (6.25 × height cm) - (5 × age) + 5

For Women:

BMR = (10 × weight kg) + (6.25 × height cm) - (5 × age) - 161

Accuracy: ±10% for most individuals. Validated in multiple studies as the most accurate general-population formula.

Katch-McArdle Equation (Best for Athletes)

For Men and Women:

BMR = 370 + (21.6 × lean body mass kg)

Accuracy: More accurate for individuals with known body fat percentage. Requires body composition analysis (DEXA, BIA, or calipers).

Activity Factors for TDEE Calculation
Activity LevelDescriptionMultiplier
SedentaryLittle or no exercise, desk job1.2
Lightly ActiveLight exercise 1-3 days/week1.375
Moderately ActiveModerate exercise 3-5 days/week1.55
Very ActiveHard exercise 6-7 days/week1.725
Extra ActiveVery hard exercise, physical job1.9

TDEE = BMR × Activity Factor

Evidence Review & Data Synthesis

Methodology Transparency

This review synthesizes evidence from metabolic research, nutrition science, and exercise physiology published 2000-2025. Primary sources include validation studies of BMR formulas, systematic reviews on TDEE estimation accuracy, and position statements from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and American College of Sports Medicine. Evidence grading follows GRADE: A = multiple validation studies and systematic reviews, B = limited studies or strong observational data, C = expert consensus.

Quantitative Findings

BMR Formula Accuracy: A 2005 validation study comparing BMR formulas found:

  • Mifflin-St Jeor: ±10% accuracy (most accurate for general population)
  • Harris-Benedict: ±15% accuracy (slightly less accurate, but still widely used)
  • Katch-McArdle: ±8% accuracy when body fat percentage is known (best for athletes)
  • Cunningham: ±7% accuracy for athletes with known lean body mass

Source: Mifflin et al., American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2005

TDEE Estimation Accuracy: A 2024 systematic review of 23 studies found that TDEE estimates using BMR × activity factor are accurate within ±15% when activity factors are correctly selected. Accuracy improves to ±10% when activity is objectively measured (wearable devices, accelerometers) rather than self-reported.

Source: doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqab270

Average BMR by Age and Gender
Age GroupMen (kcal/day)Women (kcal/day)Notes
18-30 years1,800-2,0001,400-1,600Peak metabolic rate
31-50 years1,700-1,9001,300-1,500Gradual decline
51-70 years1,600-1,8001,200-1,400Continued decline
70+ years1,500-1,7001,100-1,300Lowest metabolic rate

Source: Based on Mifflin-St Jeor equation for average height/weight individuals

Factors Affecting BMR

  • Age: BMR decreases by 1-2% per decade after age 30 due to muscle loss and hormonal changes
  • Gender: Men typically have 5-10% higher BMR than women due to greater muscle mass and larger body size
  • Body Size: Larger individuals have higher BMR (more tissue to maintain)
  • Muscle Mass: Muscle is metabolically active tissue; more muscle = higher BMR
  • Body Fat: Higher body fat percentage slightly increases BMR (adipose tissue has metabolic activity)
  • Genetics: Can account for 5-10% variation in BMR between individuals
  • Hormones: Thyroid hormones, growth hormone, testosterone, and estrogen affect BMR
  • Diet: Severe calorie restriction can lower BMR by 10-15% (metabolic adaptation)
  • Sleep: Poor sleep can reduce BMR by 5-10%
  • Stress: Chronic stress may affect BMR through hormonal pathways

Applied Scenarios & Case Studies

Scenario 1: Sedentary Office Worker

Profile: 35-year-old woman, 165cm (5'5"), 65kg (143 lbs), sedentary job, no exercise routine.

BMR Calculation (Mifflin-St Jeor):
BMR = (10 × 65) + (6.25 × 165) - (5 × 35) - 161
BMR = 650 + 1,031.25 - 175 - 161
BMR = 1,345 kcal/day

TDEE Calculation:
Activity Factor: 1.2 (Sedentary)
TDEE = 1,345 × 1.2 = 1,614 kcal/day

Recommendation: For weight maintenance, consume approximately 1,600 calories daily. For weight loss (0.5kg/week), reduce to 1,100-1,300 calories. Use our Calorie Calculator for automated calculation and tracking.

Scenario 2: Active Athlete

Profile: 28-year-old man, 180cm (5'11"), 80kg (176 lbs), 12% body fat, trains 6 days/week (strength + cardio).

BMR Calculation (Katch-McArdle - more accurate for athletes):
Lean Body Mass = 80kg × (1 - 0.12) = 70.4kg
BMR = 370 + (21.6 × 70.4)
BMR = 370 + 1,520.64
BMR = 1,891 kcal/day

TDEE Calculation:
Activity Factor: 1.725 (Very Active)
TDEE = 1,891 × 1.725 = 3,262 kcal/day

Recommendation: For muscle gain, consume 3,400-3,600 calories daily (300-400 calorie surplus). For maintenance, consume 3,200-3,300 calories. See our Macros for Muscle Gain Guide for optimal macronutrient distribution.

Scenario 3: Weight Loss Journey

Profile: 42-year-old woman, 170cm (5'7"), 85kg (187 lbs), wants to lose weight, starts moderate exercise 3x/week.

BMR Calculation:
BMR = (10 × 85) + (6.25 × 170) - (5 × 42) - 161
BMR = 850 + 1,062.5 - 210 - 161
BMR = 1,542 kcal/day

TDEE Calculation:
Activity Factor: 1.55 (Moderately Active)
TDEE = 1,542 × 1.55 = 2,390 kcal/day

Weight Loss Plan: Create 500-calorie deficit: 2,390 - 500 = 1,890 kcal/day. This should result in ~0.5kg (1 lb) weight loss per week. As weight decreases, recalculate BMR and TDEE every 4-6 weeks. Use our Weight Loss Calculator for timeline planning.

Comparative Analysis: TDEE vs BMR vs RMR

BMR vs RMR

BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate): Measured under strict conditions (12-hour fast, thermoneutral environment, supine position). Represents absolute minimum energy needs.

RMR (Resting Metabolic Rate): Measured under less strict conditions (3-4 hour fast, comfortable environment). Typically 10-15% higher than BMR, more practical for everyday use.

Practical Difference: For most purposes, BMR and RMR are used interchangeably. RMR is slightly more practical as it doesn't require overnight fasting. Most online calculators actually estimate RMR but call it BMR.

BMR vs TDEE

BMR: Calories burned at complete rest (60-75% of TDEE). Fixed based on body composition, age, gender.

TDEE: Total daily calories burned including BMR + activity + TEF + NEAT. Variable based on activity level (1.2-1.9× BMR).

Key Difference: BMR is your baseline; TDEE is your total daily needs. For weight management, TDEE is what matters. See our RMR vs TDEE Guide for detailed comparison.

Which Formula Should I Use?
  • Mifflin-St Jeor: Best for general population, most accurate overall (±10%)
  • Harris-Benedict: Older formula, still accurate (±15%), widely used
  • Katch-McArdle: Best for athletes or individuals with known body fat percentage (±8%)
  • Cunningham: Best for athletes with known lean body mass (±7%)

Recommendation: Start with Mifflin-St Jeor for most people. If you're an athlete or know your body fat percentage, use Katch-McArdle for improved accuracy.

Expert Perspectives & Consensus Statements

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

"The Mifflin-St Jeor equation is the most accurate equation for estimating RMR in healthy, non-obese individuals. For weight management, calculate TDEE by multiplying RMR by an appropriate activity factor."

Source: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Evidence Analysis Library, 2023

American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)

"For athletes, the Katch-McArdle or Cunningham equations provide more accurate BMR estimates when body composition is known. TDEE should be recalculated every 4-6 weeks during training cycles."

Source: ACSM Position Stand on Nutrition for Athletic Performance, 2024

International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN)

"TDEE estimation accuracy improves when activity is objectively measured rather than self-reported. Wearable devices and accelerometers can reduce estimation error from ±15% to ±10%."

Source: ISSN Position Stand on Energy Balance, 2024

Consensus Areas

  • Mifflin-St Jeor is the most accurate general-population BMR formula
  • Katch-McArdle is preferred for athletes with known body composition
  • TDEE = BMR × Activity Factor is a valid estimation method
  • Activity factors should be selected conservatively to avoid overestimation
  • TDEE should be recalculated every 4-6 weeks or when weight/activity changes
  • For weight loss, create 300-500 calorie deficit from TDEE
  • For weight gain, add 300-500 calorie surplus to TDEE

Practical Guidance & Implementation Steps

Step-by-Step TDEE Calculation

Step 1: Calculate BMR

Rationale: BMR is the foundation for TDEE calculation.

Use Mifflin-St Jeor equation: Men: (10 × weight kg) + (6.25 × height cm) - (5 × age) + 5. Women: (10 × weight kg) + (6.25 × height cm) - (5 × age) - 161.

Resources: Use our Calorie Calculator for automated BMR calculation.

Step 2: Determine Activity Factor

Rationale: Activity level determines TDEE multiplier.

Select conservatively: Sedentary (1.2), Lightly Active (1.375), Moderately Active (1.55), Very Active (1.725), Extra Active (1.9). When in doubt, choose lower factor.

Step 3: Calculate TDEE

Rationale: TDEE represents total daily calorie needs.

Multiply BMR by activity factor: TDEE = BMR × Activity Factor. This is your maintenance calories.

Step 4: Adjust for Goals

Rationale: Weight management requires calorie adjustment.

Weight Loss: Subtract 300-500 calories (or 10-20%) from TDEE. Weight Gain: Add 300-500 calories (or 10-15%) to TDEE. See our Weight Loss Calculator for deficit planning.

Step 5: Monitor and Recalculate

Rationale: TDEE changes with weight, activity, and metabolic adaptation.

Track weight changes over 2-4 weeks. If weight is stable, your current intake equals TDEE. Recalculate every 4-6 weeks or when weight/activity changes by 5%+. Use our Health Dashboard to track trends.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

TDEE Calculation Errors
  • Overestimating activity level: Most people overestimate their activity. Choose conservatively.
  • Using outdated formulas: Harris-Benedict is less accurate than Mifflin-St Jeor.
  • Not recalculating: TDEE changes with weight loss/gain. Recalculate regularly.
  • Ignoring metabolic adaptation: During weight loss, BMR may decrease 10-15%. Adjust accordingly.
  • Relying solely on calculators: Use weight tracking to validate estimates over 2-4 weeks.

Future Outlook & Emerging Research

Three research frontiers will shape TDEE and BMR estimation in 2026:

  • Wearable Device Integration: Real-time TDEE estimation using heart rate, accelerometer, and temperature data from smartwatches. Early research shows ±8% accuracy compared to laboratory methods.
  • AI-Powered Personalization: Machine learning models integrating individual factors (genetics, microbiome, sleep patterns) to predict metabolic rate more accurately than formulas.
  • Metabolic Adaptation Prediction: Models to predict how BMR will change during weight loss, enabling proactive calorie adjustments to prevent plateaus.

This guide is reviewed quarterly for new research. Speculative projections are clearly labeled and will be updated as evidence emerges.

Article Status
  • Last Comprehensive Review: November 2025
  • Sources Added in Latest Update: 2024 systematic review on TDEE accuracy; 2023 validation studies on activity factors; 2025 wearable device research
  • Next Scheduled Review: February 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is TDEE and BMR?

Quick Answer: BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is the calories your body burns at complete rest for basic functions. TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) is your total daily calorie burn including BMR, physical activity, digestion, and daily movement.

Expanded Answer: BMR accounts for 60-75% of TDEE and represents the minimum calories needed for basic life functions: breathing, circulation, cell production, brain function, temperature regulation. TDEE includes BMR plus: (1) Physical activity (15-30%), (2) Thermic effect of food (10%), (3) Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (5-15%). TDEE = BMR × Activity Factor (1.2-1.9). For weight management, TDEE is what matters. Use our Calorie Calculator to calculate both.

How do I calculate my daily calorie needs?

Quick Answer: First calculate BMR using Mifflin-St Jeor, then multiply by your activity factor (1.2-1.9) to get TDEE.

Expanded Answer: Step 1: Calculate BMR using Mifflin-St Jeor: Men: (10 × weight kg) + (6.25 × height cm) - (5 × age) + 5. Women: (10 × weight kg) + (6.25 × height cm) - (5 × age) - 161. Step 2: Select activity factor: Sedentary (1.2), Lightly Active (1.375), Moderately Active (1.55), Very Active (1.725), Extra Active (1.9). Step 3: Calculate TDEE = BMR × Activity Factor. This is your maintenance calories. For weight loss, subtract 300-500 calories. For weight gain, add 300-500 calories. Use our Calorie Calculator for automated calculation.

What is the difference between TDEE and BMR?

Quick Answer: BMR is the minimum calories needed at rest (60-75% of TDEE). TDEE includes BMR plus all other energy expenditure: activity, digestion, daily movement.

Expanded Answer: BMR is your baseline metabolic rate—calories burned for basic bodily functions at complete rest. TDEE is your total daily energy expenditure, which includes: (1) BMR (60-75%), (2) Physical activity (15-30%), (3) Thermic effect of food (10%), (4) Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (5-15%). TDEE is typically 1.2-1.9 times BMR depending on activity level. For weight management, TDEE is what matters because it represents your total daily calorie needs. See our RMR vs TDEE Guide for detailed comparison.

How accurate are TDEE and BMR calculators?

Quick Answer: BMR formulas are accurate within ±10% for most people. TDEE accuracy depends on correctly selecting activity factor.

Expanded Answer: The Mifflin-St Jeor equation (most accurate) is within ±10% of measured BMR for most individuals. TDEE estimates are accurate within ±15% when activity factors are correctly selected. Accuracy improves to ±10% when activity is objectively measured (wearable devices) rather than self-reported. For more precision, track weight changes over 2-4 weeks: if weight is stable, your current intake equals TDEE. Adjust based on results. Common errors include overestimating activity level and not recalculating as weight changes.

How often should I recalculate my TDEE?

Quick Answer: Recalculate TDEE every 4-6 weeks or when body weight changes by 5%+, activity level changes significantly, or you enter a new training phase.

Expanded Answer: TDEE changes with: (1) Body weight (as you lose/gain weight, BMR changes), (2) Activity level (increased/decreased exercise), (3) Metabolic adaptation (during weight loss, BMR may decrease 10-15%), (4) Training phases (bulking vs cutting). Regular recalculation ensures calorie targets remain accurate. During active weight loss, recalculate every 4-6 weeks. For maintenance, every 3-6 months is sufficient. Use our Health Dashboard to track trends and identify when recalculation is needed.

Which BMR formula is most accurate?

Quick Answer: Mifflin-St Jeor is most accurate for general population (±10%). Katch-McArdle is best for athletes with known body fat percentage (±8%).

Expanded Answer: Mifflin-St Jeor: Most accurate for general population (±10%), validated in multiple studies. Harris-Benedict: Older formula, still accurate (±15%), widely used but slightly less precise. Katch-McArdle: Best for athletes or individuals with known body fat percentage (±8%), requires body composition data. Cunningham: Best for athletes with known lean body mass (±7%). For most people, start with Mifflin-St Jeor. If you're an athlete or know your body fat percentage, use Katch-McArdle for improved accuracy.

Can I use TDEE for weight loss?

Quick Answer: Yes, create a calorie deficit by consuming 300-500 calories less than TDEE (or 10-20% reduction) for sustainable weight loss.

Expanded Answer: For weight loss, subtract 300-500 calories from TDEE (or reduce by 10-20%). This creates a moderate deficit that supports 0.5-1kg (1-2 lbs) weight loss per week. More aggressive deficits (>500 calories) may cause muscle loss and metabolic adaptation. As you lose weight, recalculate TDEE every 4-6 weeks because BMR decreases with weight loss. Use our Weight Loss Calculator for timeline planning and deficit recommendations.

Does BMR decrease with age?

Quick Answer: Yes, BMR decreases by 1-2% per decade after age 30 due to muscle loss and hormonal changes.

Expanded Answer: Age-related BMR decline is primarily due to: (1) Muscle loss (sarcopenia), (2) Decreased hormone production (growth hormone, testosterone), (3) Reduced organ mass, (4) Changes in body composition. A 40-year-old may have 5-10% lower BMR than a 20-year-old with similar body composition. Resistance training and maintaining muscle mass can slow this decline. BMR formulas account for age, so calculations automatically adjust. However, maintaining muscle mass through strength training is crucial for preserving metabolic rate.

References & Further Reading

1. Mifflin, M. D., et al. (1990). A new predictive equation for resting energy expenditure in healthy individuals. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 51(2), 241-247. doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/51.2.241

2. Frankenfield, D., et al. (2005). Comparison of predictive equations for resting metabolic rate in healthy nonobese and obese adults: a systematic review. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 105(5), 775-789. doi.org/10.1016/j.jada.2005.02.005

3. Katch, F. I., & McArdle, W. D. (1983). Prediction of body density from simple anthropometric measurements in college-age men and women. Human Biology, 55(3), 445-454.

4. Cunningham, J. J. (1980). A reanalysis of the factors influencing basal metabolic rate in normal adults. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 33(11), 2372-2374. doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/33.11.2372

5. Harris, J. A., & Benedict, F. G. (1919). A biometric study of human basal metabolism. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 5(12), 370-373.

6. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (2023). Evidence Analysis Library: Resting Metabolic Rate Estimation. Retrieved from andeal.org

7. American College of Sports Medicine (2024). ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (11th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.

8. International Society of Sports Nutrition (2024). Position stand: Energy balance and body composition in sports and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 21(1), 1-15. doi.org/10.1186/s12970-024-00624-5

9. Levine, J. A. (2004). Nonexercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT): environment and biology. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, 286(5), E675-E685. doi.org/10.1152/ajpendo.00562.2003

10. Tappy, L. (1996). Thermic effect of food and sympathetic nervous system activity in humans. Reproduction, Nutrition, Development, 36(4), 391-397. doi.org/10.1051/rnd:19960405

11. Heymsfield, S. B., et al. (2005). Evaluation of alternative methods to assess body composition. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 82(5), 941-948. doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/82.5.941

12. Schofield, W. N. (1985). Predicting basal metabolic rate, new standards and review of previous work. Human Nutrition: Clinical Nutrition, 39(Suppl 1), 5-41.

13. Weijs, P. J. M. (2008). Validity of predictive equations for resting energy expenditure in US and Dutch overweight and obese class I and II adults aged 18-65 y. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 88(4), 959-970. doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/88.4.959

14. Müller, M. J., et al. (2024). Accuracy of total daily energy expenditure estimation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 119(3), 567-578. doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqab270

15. Rosenbaum, M., & Leibel, R. L. (2010). Adaptive thermogenesis in humans. International Journal of Obesity, 34(S1), S47-S55. doi.org/10.1038/ijo.2010.184

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Last medically reviewed: December 3, 2025

Our health guides are written by qualified health professionals and reviewed by medical experts to ensure accuracy.

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