1. What is Resting Energy Expenditure (REE)?

Definition: REE represents the number of calories your body burns at complete rest to maintain basic physiological functions.

Purpose: This calculator helps estimate daily calorie needs for weight maintenance, loss, or gain.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( REE \) — Resting energy expenditure (kcal/day)
• \( k \) — Constant (typically 10-20 kcal/kg/day)
• \( W \) — Body weight (kg)

Explanation: This simple formula provides a rough estimate of basal metabolic rate based on body weight.

3. Importance of REE Calculation

Details: Knowing your REE helps in creating personalized nutrition plans and understanding your body's energy needs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your body weight in kg and select an appropriate constant (default 15 kcal/kg/day). The constant typically ranges between 10-20.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What constant (k) value should I use?
A: Use lower values (10-12) for sedentary individuals, moderate (13-17) for average activity, and higher (18-20) for very active individuals.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This provides a rough estimate. More accurate methods include indirect calorimetry or comprehensive equations like Harris-Benedict.

Q3: Does this account for body composition?
A: No, this simple formula doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. More muscle typically means higher REE.

Q4: Should I use this for weight loss planning?
A: This gives only resting expenditure. For weight loss, you'll need to factor in activity level and create a calorie deficit.

Q5: Why measure in kcal/day?
A: Kilocalories per day is the standard unit for measuring energy expenditure in nutrition science.