Bee Calculator Mdcalc

Harris-Benedict Equation:

For Men: BEE = 66.5 + (13.75 × weight) + (5.003 × height) - (6.75 × age)
For Women: BEE = 655.1 + (9.563 × weight) + (1.850 × height) - (4.676 × age)

Gender:

Weight:

Height:

Age:

years

Basal Energy Expenditure (BEE):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Harris-Benedict Equation?

The Harris-Benedict equation estimates basal energy expenditure (BEE), which represents the number of calories your body needs at complete rest to maintain basic physiological functions. It's widely used in clinical nutrition to determine daily caloric requirements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Harris-Benedict equation:

For Men: BEE = 66.5 + (13.75 × weight) + (5.003 × height) - (6.75 × age)
For Women: BEE = 655.1 + (9.563 × weight) + (1.850 × height) - (4.676 × age)

Where:

BEE — Basal Energy Expenditure (kcal/day)
Weight — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
Height — Height in centimeters (cm)
Age — Age in years

Explanation: The equation accounts for gender differences in metabolic rate and calculates the minimum energy required for vital body functions at rest.

3. Importance of BEE Calculation

Details: Accurate BEE estimation is crucial for nutritional assessment, weight management, clinical diet planning, and determining appropriate caloric intake for patients with various medical conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kg, height in cm, age in years, and select gender. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age between 1-120).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between BEE and TDEE?
A: BEE (Basal Energy Expenditure) represents calories burned at complete rest, while TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) includes physical activity and accounts for total daily calorie needs.

Q2: How accurate is the Harris-Benedict equation?
A: It provides a reasonable estimate for most healthy adults but may be less accurate for very muscular, obese, or elderly individuals. Clinical assessment may require more precise methods.

Q3: Should I use this for weight loss planning?
A: Yes, BEE calculation is the foundation for determining appropriate calorie deficits for weight loss, but should be combined with activity level assessment.

Q4: Are there updated versions of this equation?
A: Yes, the Mifflin-St Jeor equation is considered more accurate for modern populations, but Harris-Benedict remains widely used in clinical practice.

Q5: How does age affect BEE?
A: BEE typically decreases with age due to loss of muscle mass and changes in metabolic rate, which is reflected in the age coefficient of the equation.