Editorial & Accuracy Policy

Last updated: September 2026

Formula selection criteria

We use formulas that meet all three of the following criteria:

  1. Published in a peer-reviewed journal or validated clinical guideline
  2. Validated on a population relevant to our users (generally healthy adults)
  3. Widely cited and replicated in subsequent research

Where multiple accepted formulas exist for the same measurement (e.g., BMR via Mifflin-St Jeor vs. Harris-Benedict), we present both with an explanation of their differences rather than silently choosing one.

Verification process

Every formula is implemented as a pure function in our open formula package. Each implementation is verified against published reference values in automated unit tests that run on every deployment. A formula that fails its reference test cannot be deployed.

Uncertainty and error margins

We display the known error margin for every formula. We never present a formula-based estimate as a precise value. For example, TDEE calculators display a range (e.g., 2,400–2,700 kcal/day) rather than a single number, because formula-based estimates miss actual expenditure by 250–350 kcal for at least half of users.

Content authorship

All articles are written or reviewed by editors with relevant credentials in exercise science, sports nutrition, or clinical practice. Author names and credentials are displayed on every article page. We do not publish anonymous health content.

Corrections policy

If you identify an error — in a formula, a calculation, or a piece of content — please email corrections@fitmeter.app. We review corrections within 5 business days and publish a correction note where the original was materially wrong.

What we do not publish

  • Diagnosis or clinical recommendation of any kind
  • Supplement or drug dosing advice
  • Before-and-after claims or weight-loss outcome guarantees
  • Thin or machine-generated permutation pages