MFP calorie goal vs. BMR

discoooo
discoooo Posts: 3
edited February 15 in Health and Weight Loss
So, I'm new to all of this and had a question regarding Basal Metabolic Rate. MFP calculates my BMR as 1,431. Should I be eating at least that much a day? MFP has my daily calorie goal as 1300, and I don't know if I should be following that or eating the 1,431. I appreciate any help, I'm slightly confused about the BMR, TDEE, etc.

Replies

  • ChrysalisCove
    ChrysalisCove Posts: 975 Member
    1. BMR is an estimation of the calories you would burn in 24hrs if you did absolutely nothing (ie comatose).
    2. TDEE is an estimation of the calories you burn via BMR + Average Activity Level
    3. What should you do? The simple answer is "whatever works best for your body." As you are just starting out, however I suggest picking a method, sticking to it for 6-8wks, & seeing how you feel / look / lose.

    As far as your calorie goal being below your *estimated* BMR... http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/1058378-oh-noes-i-am-eating-below-my-bmr
  • discoooo
    discoooo Posts: 3
    Thanks for the response! Very helpful.
  • SLLRunner
    SLLRunner Posts: 12,942 Member
    Are you sure MFP gave you as 1431 and then set your calorie goal at 1,300?

    To lose weight, your TDEE would be the first number to look at, because that's the number to subtract from based on your activity level.

    I don't know you stats, so go to this link to figure out your TDEE and what you would need to eat to lose a certain amount of weight: http://scoobysworkshop.com/calorie-calculator/
  • discoooo
    discoooo Posts: 3
    Yep, MFP gave me a BMR of 1431.

    My stats: female, 25, 140 pounds, 5'8"
    I only want to lose about 10lbs, then tighten up.

    The scoobysworkship.com calculator gave me:
    BMR: 1458
    TDEE: 2006
    Daily calories: 1604
  • LTKeegan
    LTKeegan Posts: 354 Member
    I'd be careful eating below BMR. You'll be using energy stores just to do basic chemical processes. You'll probably lose weight quickly, but it won't be very healthy! Make sure you are feeding your body!!
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