What is BMR?

Understanding Basal Metabolic Rate and your body's energy needs.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

BMR, or Basal Metabolic Rate, is the number of calories your body needs to maintain basic physiological functions while at rest. This includes breathing, circulation, cell production, brain function, and other essential processes.

How is BMR Calculated?

There are several formulas to estimate BMR. One common one is the Mifflin-St Jeor equation:

For men: BMR = 10 * weight (kg) + 6.25 * height (cm) - 5 * age + 5

For women: BMR = 10 * weight (kg) + 6.25 * height (cm) - 5 * age - 161

Factors Affecting BMR

Age: BMR decreases with age
Gender: Men generally have higher BMR than women
Body composition: More muscle mass increases BMR
Genetics: Some people naturally have higher or lower BMR

BMR represents the minimum energy expenditure required to keep your body functioning. Your total daily calorie needs will be higher than your BMR due to physical activity.

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