How to use Daily Calorie Needs Calculator
- Enter an adult age and choose the equation profile used for the resting-energy calculation.
- Enter height in cm, inches, or separate feet and inches, then enter weight in kg or pounds.
- Choose the activity description closest to a typical week. Its multiplier is shown beside the choice.
- The estimates update as you change the fields. Compare the resting estimate with the rough daily estimate and read the limits.
Example: Daily Calorie Needs Calculator
Estimate daily energy use for a 30-year-old using the male equation profile.
Options
- Equation profile
- The published Mifflin-St Jeor equations use male (+5) and female (−161) constants. These choices describe the equation, not your identity. The estimate may fit an individual poorly.
- Height and weight
- The calculation converts pounds to kilograms and inches or feet to centimeters before applying the same equation.
- Typical activity
- The five visible factors are rough multipliers applied to the resting estimate. Choosing a description does not measure actual movement or metabolism.
Supported inputs and limits
Where your input is processed
This tool processes your input in this browser. Your text and files are not uploaded to UseFreeTools. Check this tool's limits for anything it may save on your device.
Equation and activity assumptions
Checked 2026-09-29. NCBI Endotext publishes the adult Mifflin-St Jeor resting metabolic rate estimate as 9.99 × weight in kg + 6.25 × height in cm − 4.92 × age in years, then +5 for its male equation or −161 for its female equation. The University of Utah lists rough activity factors of 1.2, 1.375, 1.55, 1.725 and 1.9 for increasing activity descriptions. This page multiplies the resting estimate by the chosen factor; it does not measure individual total energy expenditure. The University article discusses weight-loss targets, but this page does not calculate or recommend one.
Questions about Daily Calorie Needs Calculator
Is the daily number a calorie goal?
No. It is a rough estimate of energy use, not an instruction on how much to eat. Personal needs can differ, especially during illness or pregnancy.
What is the difference between resting and daily estimates?
The resting number comes from age, height, weight and the selected equation profile. The daily number multiplies it by the activity factor you choose. It is often called a TDEE estimate, but it does not measure your actual daily energy use.
How do I enter 5 feet 6 inches?
Choose ft + in, enter 5 in the feet box and 6 in the remaining-inches box. Choosing in alone means total inches, so the same height would be 66 in.
Why are there only two equation profiles?
The published formula has separate male and female constants. It does not account for every person or body composition. A clinician can assess energy needs more personally.