Tips » Diet

I just dropped 4 pounds — should I recalculate my BMR (basal metabolic rate)?

Not necessary at all. Congratulations with the 4 pounds. BMR is a shot-in-the-dark “best guess.” It works for some, not all.

Most BMR equations take into account height and weight but not lean mass, which is more of a determining factor. Then there are the inherent issues with margins of error, realizing that your "1.3 activity factor" might be different than someone else's, etc.

Bottom line? You are eating a certain way and achieving success. Now, move away from the equations and let your body be your guide. If you continue to lose, great! Why worry about BMR? If you find you are losing too fast or too slowly, adjust. Losing too fast? Simple - eat more! Losing too slowly? Eat a little less and move a little more. No need to plug in numbers that are generic statistics at best when you are a specific individual!



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