How big is the calorie margin?

Sunsh1ne
Sunsh1ne Posts: 879 Member
edited September 20 in Food and Nutrition
How big a margin of discretion is there on MFP's daily calorie budget? In both directions. I'm new, I'm still trying to figure this out.

Replies

  • lisawest
    lisawest Posts: 798 Member
    Honestly, I'm not good with the numbers.

    BUT you should read the information on the new members board. There is ALL KINDS of GREAT stuff in there! (even if you're not new!)

    Sorry I don't know the answer. Just where to find it!
  • dannyp
    dannyp Posts: 8
    How big a margin of discretion is there on MFP's daily calorie budget? In both directions. I'm new, I'm still trying to figure this out.

    I'm curious about this too and couldn't find it where you mentioned, Lisa. Anybody know? :smile:
  • ivykivy
    ivykivy Posts: 2,970 Member
    It would be different for depending on how close your metabolic rate is to the calculated one. It is usually +/- 100 weekly. For me it is -/+ 100-200 daily b/c of thyroid issues.
    How big a margin of discretion is there on MFP's daily calorie budget? In both directions. I'm new, I'm still trying to figure this out.
  • Azdak
    Azdak Posts: 8,281 Member
    It's all an estimate. The ultimate measuring tool is your scale and your other measurements (circumferences, body fat %, how your clothes fit, whatever).

    There are estimate error factors involved in every step of the process--calculating your BMR, estimating calorie intake, estimating exercise calories--so it is pointless to get too anal about the numbers. I'd say anything within 10% is as good as you can expect--maybe even 20%.
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