What is BMR?
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body burns at complete rest to maintain vital functions like breathing, circulation, cell production, and nutrient processing. It represents 60-75% of your total daily calorie burn.
BMR Formulas
This calculator provides results from two validated formulas: Mifflin-St Jeor (1990) is considered most accurate for modern populations. Harris-Benedict (revised 1984) is also widely used. The average of both provides a reliable estimate.
Factors Affecting BMR
Muscle mass (higher muscle = higher BMR), age (decreases ~2% per decade after 30), gender (men typically higher), genetics, hormones (thyroid particularly), and body temperature all influence BMR. Build muscle to increase it.
Quick Tips
- BMI alone doesn't reflect overall health
- TDEE varies based on activity level
- Consult a healthcare professional for medical decisions
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, primarily through building muscle mass via strength training.
Muscle loss (sarcopenia) and hormonal changes reduce metabolic rate by ~2% per decade.
No, eat below TDEE but generally above BMR to avoid metabolic adaptation.
Typically within 10%. Individual variation exists due to genetics and body composition.
No, BMR is at complete rest. Thermic effect of food (TEF) adds ~10% for digestion.