Estimate resting metabolic rate (RMR) and daily caloric needs using the Mifflin–St Jeor equation (1990), one of the most validated RMR formulas in clinical nutrition research.
Formula (RMR)
- Men: RMR = 10 × weight(kg) + 6.25 × height(cm) − 5 × age + 5
- Women: RMR = 10 × weight(kg) + 6.25 × height(cm) − 5 × age − 161
Total daily energy expenditure depends on activity level; this tool applies a multiplier to RMR when an activity factor is selected.
Background
Mifflin–St Jeor replaced older Harris–Benedict estimates for many populations and is recommended by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for RMR prediction when indirect calorimetry is unavailable.
When to use it
Useful for rough meal-planning targets, weight-loss or gain planning, and educational comparisons between activity levels—not for prescribing medical diets.
Limitations
Individual metabolism varies with genetics, thyroid function, medications, lean mass, and adaptive thermogenesis during prolonged dieting. The equation underestimates needs for very muscular individuals and may be less accurate in certain ethnic groups or clinical states. Indirect calorimetry remains the gold standard.
Example
With weight 77 kg and height 177 cm, mifflin returns a numeric estimate.