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Brain tumor, breast cancer, colon cancer, congenital heart disease, heart arrhythmia. Javascript is required in order to use this web app. Use the calorie calculator to estimate the number of daily calories your body needs to maintain your current weight. Select the statement that best describes your usual activity level. Inactive: Never or rarely include physical activity in your day. Somewhat active: Include light activity or moderate activity about two to three times a week. People judge the intensity of their activities differently.

And activity levels can change over time. So think of your calorie estimate as a starting point and adjust it up or down as you alter your activity level. Created by Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research based on Harris Benedict Equation and Institute of Medicine Dietary Reference Intakes. Privacy assurance: Information that you enter won’t be saved or sent to any website. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products.

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But how does an understanding of calories help with weight control and weight loss? Counting calories is one way to monitor weight loss. How many calories should you eat every day? Do you need to cut calories for weight loss? What’s the best way to lose weight? What are calories, why do we need them, and can a better understanding of calories help us maintain a healthier weight throughout our lives? Calories are units of energy that a food or drink provides.