Remember that a BMR calculator is still just an estimate. Several factors that aren’t considered by these calculations can affect the rate at which your body burns calories. If your body is too hot or cold because of your environment, your metabolism will work extra hard to maintain body temperature. You may also be taking supplements or medications that increase your metabolism. These other factors indicate that a BMR is just a general target and not a strict determinant of your daily calorie needs.

However, if you want a general idea,  use our tool below. It uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, introduced in 1990, which measures a similar though slightly different metric than the BMR called resting metabolic rate (RMR). RMR and BMR are often used interchangeably, though there is one key difference—RMR estimates your caloric needs under minimal, rather than zero, activity conditions. Think desk job rather than lying in bed. The  Mifflin-St Jeor equation is more accurate across a broader range of individual weights than the Harris-Benedict formula. After calculating RMR, the tool layers on activity level to estimate your total energy expenditure—and your estimated calories for the day. 

A recent review of equations for estimating BMR found about 248 different equations. There has obviously been a lot of effort put into coming up with more accurate calculations! The same review concluded that, while BMR calculators are great for determining general targets for a weight loss program, they aren’t as helpful for individuals, and, given their margin of error, they are best used as a general guideline.

Your body is unique—your approach to health should be too

We know that body weight is not determined by total calorie intake, the number of workouts you have per week, willpower, or even metabolism—it is a complex combination of factors that can include genetics, environment, health conditions, and lifestyle. Dietary and lifestyle changes don’t produce consistent effects for all individuals. 

At Found, our care providers specialize in obesity medicine and can personalize a weight care program that fits your lifestyle. The most effective approach to help you lose weight is the one that works with your biology. Our providers use a proprietary assessment called MetabolicPrint™ to help tailor care and prescribe medicine. You’ll also work with a certified personal health coach to help you stay focused on what’s most important for your journey and health.