Micro Intake - Where does MFP get the numbers??

lovehan
lovehan Posts: 19
in Food and Nutrition
Hey!

I know this question has been asked and answered many times on here before but I just can't find any relevant posts so I thought I would just ask again.

After using MFP for months and months now it only just occurred to me.. why am I basing my daily nutritional intake on an Iphone app? Don't get me wrong, I love MFP and I use it every single day but since this is my health I just want to make sure I'm doing the right thing.

So, when I imput my daily activity, age, height etc to determine my nutritional needs.. where does MFP get their information from? How do I know that say 40g of fat per day is what I'm supposed to be aiming for just and is accurate to my needs?

Really appreciate any thoughts!

Replies

  • hastinbe
    hastinbe Posts: 130 Member
    While I am not certain which formula MFP uses, it is likely either the Harris-Benedict equation or a Estimated Energy Requirement (EER) equation. For the ratios of fat, protein, and carbohydrates it would seem to correlate to the median value of the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI). In addition the EER equations and DRIs are variable, they change in light of new research.

    The calculations provide an estimation for individuals who are healthy. They are also inherently inaccurate due to their reliance on the Physical Activity Level (PAL), which is another estimation of physical activity expressed as a number.

    MFP cannot tell you what is healthy for you or what foods your body needs. If that is your concern you should take a closer look at your food choices to the best of your ability, and if necessary get professional assistance.

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