BMR Calculator
Automatically calculate Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) from gender, age, height, and weight. Useful for diet, health management, and nutrition planning reference.
Calculation Result
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Formulas
Harris-Benedict Equation (Revised)
Male: BMR = 88.362 + (13.397 × weight kg) + (4.799 × height cm) - (5.677 × age)
Female: BMR = 447.593 + (9.247 × weight kg) + (3.098 × height cm) - (4.330 × age)
This formula is the most widely used standard method.
How to Use
- STEP 1
- Select gender, enter age, height, and weight, then press 'Calculate BMR' button for automatic calculation.
- STEP 2
- The result shows daily basal metabolic rate (kcal) and the formula used.
- STEP 3
- Use as reference for diet, health management, and nutrition planning.
Important Notes
- BMR is the minimum energy expenditure required for vital functions at rest (e.g., during sleep).
- Actual daily calorie expenditure is higher than this value depending on activity level.
- Individual factors like muscle mass, body fat percentage, body temperature, and hormonal balance are not considered.
- May not apply to pregnant/nursing women, growing children, or those recovering from illness.
- This tool is for health management reference and does not replace medical diagnosis or nutritional guidance.
Tips
BMR is the energy required for vital functions like heartbeat, breathing and temperature regulation; it makes up about 60–70% of daily energy expenditure.
To increase BMR, focus on resistance training, HIIT, adequate sleep (7–9 hours), sufficient protein intake (approx. 1.2–1.6 g/kg), and staying well hydrated.
BMR changes with age: it tends to peak in youth and gradually declines due to loss of muscle mass and reduced cellular activity.
Men generally have higher BMR because of greater muscle mass and bone density; hormonal differences also contribute.
Organs contribute differently to BMR (e.g., liver ~27%, brain ~19%, muscle ~18%), so increasing muscle mass is an effective way to raise metabolism.
Diet-induced thermogenesis (e.g., protein-rich meals) can temporarily raise metabolic rate.
Rapid or extreme dieting can lower BMR and cause muscle loss; aim for gradual, sustainable changes.
Use BMR as a baseline only—total daily needs depend on activity level and lifestyle.
FAQ
QUESTION 1
Difference between BMR and total daily energy expenditure?
BMR is energy consumption at rest, while Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) includes daily activities. TDEE = BMR × activity factor (1.2-1.9).
QUESTION 2
How to use BMR for dieting?
Intake below BMR causes muscle loss and metabolic decline. Maintain calorie intake above BMR×1.2 and increase calorie expenditure through exercise for healthy weight loss.
QUESTION 3
How accurate is the Harris-Benedict equation?
For standard body types, accuracy is within ±10%. Accuracy may decrease for individuals with extremely high/low muscle mass or body fat percentage.
QUESTION 4
What happens with low BMR?
Symptoms may include fatigue, cold sensitivity, constipation, poor concentration, reduced immunity, and tendency to gain weight easily while losing weight with difficulty.
QUESTION 5
Can diet affect BMR?
Extreme calorie restriction can reduce metabolism by up to 20%. Conversely, Diet-Induced Thermogenesis (DIT) from protein intake can temporarily boost metabolism by ~30%.
QUESTION 6
How to measure body composition accurately?
Use DXA scans, professional body composition analysis, or validated bioelectrical impedance devices for better estimates. Home scales give rough guidance only.
QUESTION 7
Does muscle mass affect BMR?
Yes. More muscle increases resting metabolic rate. Resistance training and adequate protein help preserve or build muscle.
QUESTION 8
Can illness affect BMR?
Yes. Fever and hyperthyroidism can raise BMR, while hypothyroidism can lower it. Consult a physician for abnormal symptoms.
QUESTION 9
Should I eat below BMR to lose weight?
No. Eating below BMR risks muscle loss and metabolic slowdown. Aim for a moderate calorie deficit combined with exercise.
QUESTION 10
Is BMR the same as resting metabolic rate (RMR)?
They are similar but measured under slightly different conditions; RMR is often used interchangeably and may be a bit higher in typical settings.