What is Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)?
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) represents the total quantity of calories your body requires to perform basic life-sustaining functions (like breathing, cell production, nutrient processing, and circulation) while at absolute rest in a temperate environment.
The Mifflin-St Jeor Formula
This calculator utilizes the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, widely regarded as the most accurate metric for BMR prediction:
- Men: $BMR = 10 \times \text{Weight (kg)} + 6.25 \times \text{Height (cm)} - 5 \times \text{Age (years)} + 5$
- Women: $BMR = 10 \times \text{Weight (kg)} + 6.25 \times \text{Height (cm)} - 5 \times \text{Age (years)} - 161$
How to Utilize BMR in Your Diet
Your BMR is the foundation of your daily calorie expenditure. To lose fat, you should consume fewer calories than your total daily energy output (BMR + activity), but you should rarely eat below your BMR without clinical supervision, as eating too little can trigger metabolic deceleration and muscle loss.