Resting Daily Energy Expenditure Calculator

Harris-Benedict Equation:

\[ RDEE = 10 \times weight + 6.25 \times height - 5 \times age + s \]

Weight:

Height:

Age:

years

Gender:

Resting Daily Energy Expenditure (RDEE):

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1. What is the Harris-Benedict Equation?

The Harris-Benedict equation estimates Resting Daily Energy Expenditure (RDEE), which represents the number of calories your body needs to perform basic life-sustaining functions at rest. It's widely used in nutrition and healthcare to determine baseline caloric needs.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Harris-Benedict equation:

\[ RDEE = 10 \times weight + 6.25 \times height - 5 \times age + s \]

Where:

\( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
\( height \) — Height in centimeters (cm)
\( age \) — Age in years
\( s \) — Gender coefficient: +5 for men, -161 for women

Explanation: The equation calculates basal metabolic rate (BMR) based on individual physical characteristics, providing an estimate of daily energy expenditure at complete rest.

3. Importance of RDEE Calculation

Details: Accurate RDEE estimation is crucial for weight management, nutritional planning, medical treatment, and athletic performance optimization. It serves as the foundation for determining total daily energy needs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kg, height in cm, age in years, and select gender. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age between 1-120).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between RDEE and BMR?
A: RDEE (Resting Daily Energy Expenditure) and BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) are often used interchangeably, though BMR is typically measured under stricter conditions.

Q2: How accurate is the Harris-Benedict equation?
A: The equation provides a good estimate for most people, but individual variations in metabolism can cause ±10-15% differences from actual metabolic rate.

Q3: Should I use this for weight loss planning?
A: Yes, RDEE serves as the starting point for calculating total daily energy needs, which can then be adjusted for weight loss or gain goals.

Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The equation may be less accurate for very muscular individuals, those with high body fat percentages, elderly populations, and people with certain medical conditions.

Q5: How does activity level affect total energy needs?
A: Total daily energy expenditure is calculated by multiplying RDEE by an activity factor (sedentary: 1.2, lightly active: 1.375, moderately active: 1.55, very active: 1.725, extra active: 1.9).