Nutrition Intelligence

Scientific References & Citations

All calculations in KCALM are based on peer-reviewed scientific research. Here are the primary sources we use for our nutritional algorithms.

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Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

A new predictive equation for resting energy expenditure in healthy individuals
Mifflin MD, St Jeor ST, Hill LA, Scott BJ, Daugherty SA, Koh YO
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 1990;51(2):241-247
View on PubMed
Mifflin-St Jeor Equation
Men: BMR = (10 × weight in kg) + (6.25 × height in cm) - (5 × age) + 5
Women: BMR = (10 × weight in kg) + (6.25 × height in cm) - (5 × age) - 161
Why we use this: The Mifflin-St Jeor equation is considered more accurate than the older Harris-Benedict equation, with studies showing it predicts RMR within 10% of measured values in more individuals.

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Activity Factors

The Harris Benedict equation reevaluated: resting energy requirements and the body cell mass
Roza AM, Shizgal HM
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 1984;40(1):168-182
View on PubMed
Activity Multipliers
Sedentary (little/no exercise): BMR × 1.2
Lightly active (exercise 1-3 days/week): BMR × 1.375
Moderately active (exercise 3-5 days/week): BMR × 1.55
Very active (exercise 6-7 days/week): BMR × 1.725
Extra active (very hard exercise daily): BMR × 1.9

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Weight Change Calculations

What is the required energy deficit per unit weight loss?
Wishnofsky M
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 1958;6(5):542-546
View on PubMed
The 3,500 calorie rule: While Wishnofsky's work established that 1 pound of body fat contains approximately 3,500 calories, modern research shows weight loss is more complex. We use this as a starting estimate but encourage users to monitor actual progress.

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Macronutrient Energy Values

Principles of Nutrition and Nutritive Value of Food
Atwater WO, Benedict FG
USDA Farmers' Bulletin No. 142. 1910
View Historical Document
Atwater System
Carbohydrates: 4 calories per gram
Protein: 4 calories per gram
Fat: 9 calories per gram
Alcohol: 7 calories per gram

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Nutritional Guidelines

Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025
U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
9th Edition. December 2020
View Guidelines
Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids
Institute of Medicine
The National Academies Press. 2005
View Report

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AI & Food Recognition

Food Analysis Technology: KCALM uses advanced AI models trained on extensive nutritional databases including USDA FoodData Central, nutrition labels, and peer-reviewed nutritional studies. While we strive for accuracy, AI-based estimates should be considered approximations.