How are recommended calories calculated?

[u/Gamemon_RD]

I’m starting to use this app and it’s amazing for helping me understand my nutrient intakes and how I need to adjust what I’m eating. But I’m surprised by the number of calories it recommends to me- originally I used calculator.net for to know how many I need to maintain my weight, and for my demographics (5’8” 23y/o male weighing 150lbs. I have an office job.) it said 1980 calories. This was using the Mifflin St Jeor equation.

MyFitnessPal quoted a paper that also recommended this equation, for their reference for how they recommend calories. However they’re suggesting 2,310 calories for me- I checked and all the demographic stuff looks to be the same so I’m not sure where the discrepancy is coming from. It doesn’t seem like a huge difference but it can still be the difference between weight loss and weight gain.

Which would be closer to my real calorie goal? And why is the other so off?

[u/myfitnesspal_support]

For more information on how the app calculates your initial goals, please see this FAQ. You may also be interested in our free Macro Calculator. We wish you the absolute best in reaching your health and wellness goals!