Basic Diet Calculator

Quick Examples

Nutrition Guidelines by Goal

🔥 Cutting (Fat Loss)

Calorie Deficit: 300-500 calories below maintenance

Protein: 1.2-1.6g per kg body weight

Carbs: 2-4g per kg (training days)

Fats: 0.8-1.2g per kg

Focus: Preserve muscle, lose fat

💪 Lean Bulking

Calorie Surplus: 200-400 calories above maintenance

Protein: 1.6-2.2g per kg body weight

Carbs: 4-7g per kg

Fats: 1.0-1.5g per kg

Focus: Maximize muscle, minimize fat gain

🏋️ Powerlifting

Calories: Maintenance to slight surplus

Protein: 1.8-2.5g per kg body weight

Carbs: 5-8g per kg (high intensity)

Fats: 1.2-1.8g per kg

Focus: Strength and recovery

⚖️ Body Recomposition

Calories: At or slightly below maintenance

Protein: 1.8-2.4g per kg body weight

Carbs: 3-5g per kg (around workouts)

Fats: 1.0-1.4g per kg

Focus: Simultaneous muscle gain and fat loss

Understanding Macronutrients

Protein - The Building Block

Essential for muscle protein synthesis, recovery, and maintaining lean mass during cuts. Aim for complete proteins with all essential amino acids.

  • Sources: Lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes
  • Timing: 20-40g per meal, especially post-workout
  • Quality: Focus on leucine-rich sources

Carbohydrates - The Fuel

Primary energy source for high-intensity training. Critical for performance and recovery.

  • Sources: Rice, oats, potatoes, fruits, vegetables
  • Timing: Around workouts for performance
  • Types: Complex carbs for sustained energy

Fats - The Regulator

Essential for hormone production, vitamin absorption, and overall health.

  • Sources: Nuts, oils, avocado, fatty fish
  • Balance: Mix of saturated, monounsaturated, and omega-3s
  • Minimum: Never go below 0.8g/kg body weight

Meal Timing Strategies

Pre-Workout Nutrition

1-2 hours before: Balanced meal with carbs and protein

30-60 minutes before: Light carbs (banana, dates)

Post-Workout Nutrition

Within 30 minutes: Protein + fast carbs (whey + fruit)

Within 2 hours: Complete meal with all macros

Daily Distribution

Spread protein evenly throughout the day (20-40g per meal) for optimal muscle protein synthesis.

Supplement Recommendations

Essential Supplements

  • Whey Protein: 25-50g post-workout
  • Creatine Monohydrate: 3-5g daily
  • Multivitamin: Fill nutritional gaps
  • Omega-3: 1-3g daily for inflammation

Performance Supplements

  • Caffeine: 200-400mg pre-workout
  • Beta-Alanine: 3-5g daily for endurance
  • Citrulline: 6-8g for pump and performance

Goal-Specific Supplements

  • Cutting: L-Carnitine, Green Tea Extract
  • Bulking: Mass Gainer, Digestive Enzymes
  • Recovery: Magnesium, Zinc, Vitamin D

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate are these calculations?

These are estimates based on established formulas. Individual needs may vary by ±10-20%. Monitor your progress and adjust accordingly.

Should I eat the same on rest days?

Generally yes, especially protein. You may reduce carbs slightly on rest days if cutting, but maintain consistency for best results.

How often should I recalculate?

Recalculate every 2-4 weeks or when your weight changes by 2-3kg to maintain accuracy.

What if I'm not seeing results?

Track your intake accurately for 2 weeks. If no progress, adjust calories by 100-200 in the appropriate direction.