1. What is a Meal Calculator for Bodybuilding?

Definition: This calculator determines the food portion size per serving based on target calories, food energy density, and number of servings.

Purpose: It helps bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts precisely measure their food intake to meet nutritional goals.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Portion} \) — Food per serving (grams)
• \( \text{Calories} \) — Target calories (kcal)
• \( \text{E\_density} \) — Energy density (kcal/g)
• \( \text{Servings} \) — Number of servings

Explanation: The target calories are divided by energy density to get total food weight, then divided by servings for portion size.

3. Importance of Portion Calculation

Details: Accurate portion control ensures proper macronutrient intake, helps achieve fitness goals (bulking/cutting), and prevents over/under eating.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your target calories, food energy density (default 1.5 kcal/g for typical protein sources), and number of servings. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's energy density in food?
A: Energy density is the number of calories per gram of food. Protein is ~4 kcal/g, carbs ~4 kcal/g, fat ~9 kcal/g.

Q2: How do I find a food's energy density?
A: Check nutrition labels or use food databases. Divide calories per serving by serving weight in grams.

Q3: Why calculate per serving?
A: Meal prepping often involves dividing total food into multiple servings for consistent daily intake.

Q4: What's a typical energy density for meals?
A: Most balanced meals are 1-2 kcal/g. High-protein meals are often 1.5-1.8 kcal/g.

Q5: Should I weigh food raw or cooked?
A: Be consistent. Weighing raw is more accurate as cooking changes water content and weight.