Key Facts About Calorie Calculators

1. Estimates Daily Caloric Needs: A calorie calculator’s primary function is to estimate the total number of calories your body needs each day. This is done by combining your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)—the calories burned at rest—with an adjustment for your daily activity level (as seen in the form image).
   
2. Uses Established Formulas: The calculation is not a guess; it’s based on scientifically established formulas like the Mifflin-St Jeor Equation (the modern standard) or the Harris-Benedict Equation. These formulas use personal data such as Gender, Weight, Height, and Age (all required fields in the image) to determine your BMR.
   
3. Provides a Roadmap for Goals: The calculated number serves as a baseline (your maintenance calories). The article explains how this baseline is then adjusted for specific goals:
   • Weight Loss: A deficit (e.g., −500 kcal/day).
   • Muscle Gain: A surplus (e.g., +300 to +500 kcal/day).