Calculate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure.
Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) represents the total number of calories you burn in a day. It combines your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) with the energy used for physical activity, digestion (thermic effect of food), and non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT).
TDEE consists of four main components: BMR (60-75%), physical activity (15-30%), the thermic effect of food (about 10%), and NEAT (variable). Understanding these components helps you identify where you can make the most impact on your energy balance.
Your activity level significantly affects TDEE. Sedentary individuals (desk job, little exercise) multiply BMR by 1.2, while extremely active people (physical job plus intense training) multiply by 1.9. Choosing the right activity level is crucial for accurate results.
Once you know your TDEE, you can adjust your calorie intake accordingly. For weight loss, aim for a 500-calorie deficit. For muscle gain, a 250-500 calorie surplus is recommended. Track your progress and adjust every 2-4 weeks based on actual results.