How to Determine Caloric Needs

Several formulas attempt to calculate the number of calories a person needs daily to maintain his body weight. Unfortunately, none of the formulas consider all of the factors needed to arrive at a precise number. One formula that uses most of the factors required for an accurate calculation is the Harris Benedict Equation. This formula first establishes a person's basal metabolic rate, or BMR, based on height, weight, age and gender. The equation also factors in the individual's activity level. Multiplying these two figures results in the number of calories a person needs to function at a resting state.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine your weight in pounds and height in inches. Weigh yourself in the morning before eating for the most accurate results.

• 2

  Determine your BMR using one of the following formulas.

  Men: 66 + (6.23 x weight in pounds ) + (12.7 x height in inches ) -- ( 6.76 x age in years).

  Women: 655 + (4.35 x weight in pounds ) + (4.7 x height in inches ) -- (4.7 x age in years).

• 3

  Multiply your BMR. Different multipliers should be used based on activity levels. Multiply by 1.2 if you are sedentary, by 1.375 if you are lightly active, by 1.55 if you are moderately active, by 1.725 if you are very active or by 1.9 if you are extra active. The number you arrive at after these calculations indicates the number of calories you need to maintain your body weight.