Understanding BMI, BMR and TDEE Estimates

Know what each number means

BMI relates weight to height and is a population screening measure, not a direct body-fat test. BMR estimates energy used at rest. TDEE applies an activity factor to estimate average daily expenditure.

Expect uncertainty

Muscle mass, age, health, medication, body composition, and actual activity can make formulas differ from an individual measurement. Activity categories are especially easy to overestimate.

Use trends with context

Treat results as starting ranges and compare them with longer-term weight, performance, recovery, and wellbeing. They are not diagnoses or personalized prescriptions. A clinician or registered dietitian can interpret unusual or high-risk situations.