Verified Mathematical Model & Formulation
Mifflin-St Jeor (Men): (10 × kg) + (6.25 × cm) - (5 × age) + 5 Mifflin-St Jeor (Women): (10 × kg) + (6.25 × cm) - (5 × age) - 161 Harris-Benedict (Men): 88.362 + (13.397 × kg) + (4.799 × cm) - (5.677 × age) Harris-Benedict (Women): 447.593 + (9.247 × kg) + (3.098 × cm) - (4.330 × age)
Estimates the baseline resting metabolic expenditure necessary to sustain involuntary organ function (respiration, cardiac circulation, cellular maintenance) during 24 hours of absolute physical rest.
Configurable Parameters & Standard Units
- Biological Sex (1=Male, 2=Female): (Default: 1 count)
- Age (Years): (Default: 30 years)
- Body Weight (kg): (Default: 75 kg)
- Height (cm): (Default: 175 cm)
Standard Worked Example & Practical Verification
Scenario: A 26-year-old female, 62 kg, 165 cm tall.
Practical Takeaway: Even in complete bed rest, the body requires approximately 1,360 kcal daily to maintain essential vital functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Mifflin-St Jeor preferred over Harris-Benedict?
The American Dietetic Association reviewed clinical validation studies and determined Mifflin-St Jeor is within 10% of measured indirect calorimetry in non-obese and obese individuals, making it more reliable than older 1919 formulas.
Can you eat below your BMR?
Prolonged eating significantly below BMR can induce adaptive thermogenesis, fatigue, hormonal disruption, and muscle loss. Deficits are normally calculated from TDEE, not BMR.