TDEE vs. BMR: What’s the Difference?

Understanding BMR

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body needs to perform basic functions like breathing, circulation, and cell production while at rest.

Understanding TDEE

Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) is the total number of calories your body burns in a day, including BMR and calories burned through physical activity.

Key Differences Between TDEE and BMR

Feature BMR TDEE
Definition Calories needed for basic functions Calories burned daily, including activity
Activity Level Does not include activity Includes all daily activities
Calculation Based on age, gender, weight, height BMR multiplied by an activity factor

How to Use BMR and TDEE

Your BMR helps you understand your minimum calorie needs, while your TDEE helps determine your total calorie requirements for maintaining, losing, or gaining weight.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between TDEE and BMR is crucial for managing your diet and fitness goals. Use them together to create an effective nutrition plan.