Erythema multiforme

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Erythema multiforme

Erythema multiforme is a skin disorder that may be caused by an allergic reaction to an allergen (usually a medicine) or an infection.

20% of the cases occur in children.

What causes erythema multiforme?

We don’t know what causes it.

One theory is that it could be triggered by a prior viral infection. It is thought to be caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 or mycoplasma infections. Other viruses, fungi or bacterial infections could be the root cause.

Symptoms of erythema multiforme

Before or just as the lesions appear, there may be the following symptoms:

  • low grade fever
  • feeling generally unwell
  • body aches and pains
  • joint stiffness (uncommon symptom)
  • joint swelling (uncommon symptom)

The symptoms include skin or mouth lesions less than 3cm. They have a pink-red centre surrounded by a pale ring border and an outer pink-red ring.

The lesions can sometimes be painful or itchy.

If the baby or toddler also has a higher grade fever or is very unwell, a doctor must be consulted. It could be more serious and requires prompt medical attention and treatment.

Treatment of erythema multiforme

It usually resolves itself in time, within 4-6 weeks.

  • steroids – can help relieve symptoms
  • antivirals – occasionally used when it is triggered by a viral infection
  • moisturising cream – eczema or dermatitis cream can help speed up recovery

References

  • Erythema multiforme. DermNet. Accessed 5 July 2024
  • Erythema multiforme. National Institute of Health, USA. Accessed 5 July 2024
  • Erythema Multiforme: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology. Medscape eMedicine. Accessed 5 July 2024

Last reviewed and updated: 5 July 2024

Ringworm on children

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Ringworm on children

Facts

This contagious disease is caused by a fungal infection, specifically by the dermatophyte fungi.

Ringworm was given it’s name because the rash appears worm-like, in round patches on the skin.

Ringworm can occur on the body (especially the stomach or chest area), the scalp or even sometimes, on the nails.

Ringworm is also known as tinea.

Incubation period

Incubation period

The incubation period is the length of time it takes from being infected by someone else with ringworm, to showing symptoms. It will take 4-10 days before you show any symptoms.

Ringworm has an incubation period of: 4-10 days

Catching ringworm

How do you get ringworm?

You can catch ringworm by:

  • person to person contact
  • contact with animals
  • from the soil (if that is where the fungi are present)

Symptoms

Symptoms of ringworm

  • On the scalp – this is known as tinea capitis and symptoms are:
    • Scaly, round, itchy and bald patches
    • Raised inflamed skin
  • On the body – this is known as tinea corporis and symptoms are:
    • Rashes that are ring-like and may be red, scaly and itchy
    • Small blisters around the edge of patches
    • The centre of the round patch clears first
  • On the nails – this is known as tinea unguium and symptoms are:
    • Discolouration of the nails
    • Thick or brittle nails

Treatment

Treatment of ringworm

  • See a doctor – any child with suspected ringworm needs to see a doctor who can perform an examination to diagnose this condition
  • Samples – the doctor may take samples of skin scrapings, hair or nail clippings to be tested in order to identify the infection type
  • Medication – the doctor will most likely prescribe some type of anti-fungal medication, either oral (for scalp, nail or body ringworm) or topical (for body ringworm)
  • Separate personal care – the child’s brush, comb and towel should be kept separate to everyone else’s in the family, to prevent the infection from spreading

complications

Complications

The complications of ringworm mostly occur due to a weakened immune system. They include:

  • hair loss and scarring
  • dark marks left on your skin, particularly on darker skin
  • nail deformities
  • secondary infection if any bacteria entered broken skin
  • Majocchi’s granuloma — a rare infection where the fungus has made its way to deeper layers of the skin

Vaccination

Vaccination

There’s currently no vaccine for ringworm.

If your child has ringworm, keep them away from childcare, kindergarten or school. Do not allow them to share any personal items with anyone else.

Risk

Reducing risk of infection

Strategies to reduce infection:

  • if your child gets ringworm, keep them away from school and other children
  • discuss the ringworm infection with your doctor
  • ensure you and your child/children wash hands with a sanitising hand soap
  • wash toys and clothes in detergent that has a sanitising effect
  • wipe down surfaces with a 70% alcohol solution
  • don’t share eating utensils, linens, towels or other personal items with anyone else

References

References

  • Ringworm. CDC USA. Accessed 4 July 2024
  • Tinea corporis. National Institutes of Health USA. Accessed 4 July 2024

Last reviewed and updated: 4 July 2024

Meningitis

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Meningitis

Facts

Meningitis is a very serious, but rare condition in which there is inflammation in lining of the brain and spinal cord (meninges).

Meningitis is very contagious.

Children with this condition need to be kept away from other children until they are clear of the infection.

Meningitis can be caused by either a bacterial or viral infection.

Meningococcal, which is a common type of bacterial meningitis, usually occurs with septicaemia (poisoning of the blood) and this can be life-threatening.

Incubation period

Incubation period

The incubation period is the length of time it takes from being infected by someone else with meningitis, to showing symptoms. It will take 1-2 weeks before you show any symptoms.

Meningitis has an incubation period of: 2-10 days

Catching meningitis

How do you get meningitis?

You can catch meningitis in a few ways:

  • breathing in tiny infected droplets from infected people, when they cough or sneeze
  • coming into close contact with someone else who’s infected with meningitis

The risk of catching meningitis is higher if your immune system is somewhat impaired (people with serious underlying conditions, older people) or not evolved (babies and children). It is easily spread by being in close proximity with others, for example at schools, daycare, dormitories.

Symptoms

Symptoms of measles

Both viral and bacterial meningitis have similar symptoms. Bacterial meningitis symptoms get worse very quickly.

Symptoms of viral meningitis

  • Crying – babies and toddlers may not stop crying
  • Decreased appetite – babies and toddlers may not want to eat much
  • Fever – a high fever which may go up over 40°C (104°F)
  • Headache – most often accompanied by the stiff neck, although on babies, the fontanelle (soft spot on the forehead) can appear to be bulging
  • Rash – can start as a cluster of tiny blood spots that look like pin pricks and develops into large purple marks all over the body that do not turn white when the skin is pressed. This is a sign of septicaemia which is very serious, life-threatening and at an advanced stage
  • Respiratory symptoms – babies and children may cough or find it difficult to breath properly, with fast breathing and noises with every breath being common
  • Sensitivity to light – this is an uncommon symptom, but can occur in some babies and toddlers
  • Stiff neck – this is one of the classic signs of meningitis
  • Stomach upset – vomiting and nausea or pain (can be more of a sign that septicaemia is starting)
  • Unusual body movement – babies and toddlers may arch their back or have a very floppy body
  • Vomiting – babies may throw up, even if they haven’t been eating much

Symptoms of bacterial meningitis

  • altered mental status – your child may not be able to focus or think properly
  • fever and chills – feeling hot and cold due to a fever
  • headache or stiff neck – headaches are accompanied by a stiff neck, although on babies, the fontanelle (soft spot on the forehead) can appear to be bulging
  • irritability – your child may not stop crying
  • nausea and vomiting – this is a common symptom
  • purple areas of skin that resemble bruises – the more there are of these, the more serious the condition
  • sensitivity to light – uncommon symptom, but can occur in some babies and toddlers
  • sleepiness and lethargy – this is a typical symptom of any infection

Bacterial meningitis symptoms develop very quickly. Get your child to the hospital if they experience any of these symptoms. Bacterial meningitis can be deadly very quickly.

Treatment

Treatment of meningitis

  • See a doctor – any child with suspected chickenpox needs to see a doctor who can perform an examination to diagnose this condition
  • Antibiotics – the child will be given antibiotics, either orally (tablets) or intravenously (into a vein) depending on the severity and stage of the condition
  • Rest – the child should rest to help the body heal itself
  • Fluids – plenty of fluids (water, natural juice)

Meningitis and septicaemia are medical emergencies and you need to call an ambulance, especially if the purple rash is present.

Complications

Complications

Complications can occur with meningitis, especially the bacterial form.

Some common complications include:

  • seizures
  • hearing loss
  • vision loss
  • memory problems
  • migraine headaches
  • brain damage
  • hydrocephalus
  • a subdural empyema, or a buildup of fluid between the brain and the skull

Some of the more serious complications include:

  • pneumonia – this is a serious infection of the lungs and usually requires hospitalisation
  • amputations of limbs – when the bacteria enters the bloodstream, they can multiply and release high amounts of toxins. These cause blood vessel damage and leak blood into the skin and organs. Gangrene can damage the skin and amputation may be required
  • death – even with treatment, 15 out of every 1,000 people who are infected with meningitis will die.

Vaccination

Vaccination

There are 3 vaccines for bacterial meningitis available in Australia. Only under the national immunisation schedule:

  • Meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine – targets 4 of the most common types of bacterial meningitis. This vaccine is free for children aged 12 months and those who are 14-16 years. It is also free for people of all ages with asplenia and hyposplenia, complement deficiency and those receiving treatment with eculizumab
  • Serogroup B meningococcal (MenB) vaccine – targets one specific strain and its protection window is much shorter. Only certain populations are recommended to get this vaccine. This vaccine is free
  • Meningococcal C conjugate (MenC) vaccine – targets one specific strain and its protection window is much shorter. Only certain populations are recommended to get this vaccine

Risk

Reducing risk of infection

The best and easiest way to prevent infection is to get vaccinated. Children should receive the MenACWY vaccine at 12 months and again at 14-15 years.

Other strategies to reduce infection:

  • if your child gets meningitis, keep them away from school and other children
  • discuss the meningitis infection with your doctor or ambulance/hospital if you’re going to the hospital as they need to manage it differently to prevent infection in themselves and others
  • ensure you and your child/children wash hands with a sanitising hand soap
  • wash toys and clothes in detergent that has a sanitising effect
  • wipe down surfaces with a 70% alcohol solution
  • pregnant women should stay away from anyone who has meningitis

References

References

  • Meningitis. Department of Health and Aged Care. Accessed 3 July 2024
  • Meningitis. World Health Organisation. Accessed 3 July 2024
  • Meningitis. CDC USA. Accessed 3 July 2024
  • Meningococcal vaccine. National immunisation schedule. Accessed 3 July 2024
  • Meningococcal vaccines (PDF). National Centre For Immunisation Research and Surveillance. Accessed 3 July 2024

Last reviewed and updated: 3 July 2024

What men want in a relationship

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What men want in a relationship

Understanding what men typically seek in a relationship involves recognising various emotional, psychological, and practical needs.

These six aspects highlight various dimensions of what many men seek in a relationship, contributing to a well-rounded understanding of their desires and expectations in a committed partnership.

Companionship and partnership

Men often seek a relationship that offers genuine companionship and partnership. This involves having a partner who shares in life’s experiences, from daily routines to special moments. Men value a relationship where both partners contribute equally to the relationship’s dynamics, supporting each other in both the good times and the bad. They desire a connection that goes beyond superficial interactions and encompasses shared interests and activities.

Companionship also means having a partner who is a friend and confidant. Men appreciate when their partners engage in meaningful conversations, provide emotional support, and offer a sense of camaraderie. This aspect of a relationship fosters a deeper bond, allowing both partners to feel understood and valued.

Furthermore, a strong sense of partnership entails collaborating on life’s challenges and joys. Men often seek relationships where both partners are willing to work together towards common goals, share responsibilities, and support each other’s ambitions. This mutual effort helps in creating a stable and fulfilling partnership.

Respect and appreciation

Respect and appreciation are fundamental for many men in a relationship. Men generally desire to feel valued and acknowledged for their contributions and qualities. This respect involves recognising their efforts, achievements, and personal attributes, and expressing gratitude for their role in the relationship. Feeling appreciated helps build self-esteem and reinforces their sense of worth within the partnership.

Respect also entails valuing each other’s opinions and boundaries. Men want to be heard and considered in decision-making processes, and they appreciate partners who show respect for their perspectives. This mutual respect helps in fostering a balanced and equitable relationship where both partners feel equally valued.

In addition, showing appreciation through verbal affirmations and actions contributes to a positive relationship dynamic. Men often look for regular expressions of gratitude and acknowledgement, which can strengthen the emotional connection and enhance overall relationship satisfaction.

Physical affection and intimacy

Physical affection and intimacy are significant aspects of many men’s relationship desires. Men often seek a partner who is physically affectionate, showing love through gestures like hugging, kissing, and holding hands. This physical connection helps reinforce emotional bonds and provides a sense of closeness and security.

Intimacy, both emotional and physical, plays a crucial role in many relationships. Men appreciate when their partners are attentive and responsive to their needs, creating a fulfilling and satisfying intimate connection. This aspect of the relationship can enhance overall well-being and contribute to a deeper emotional connection.

Furthermore, physical affection and intimacy help in maintaining a strong and passionate relationship. Regular expressions of love and physical closeness can keep the relationship vibrant and fulfilling. Men often desire a partner who is enthusiastic about maintaining this aspect of the relationship, contributing to mutual satisfaction and happiness.

Shared interests and activities

Many men value having shared interests and activities within a relationship. Engaging in common hobbies or pursuits can strengthen the bond between partners and create enjoyable experiences together. Men often seek relationships where both partners have overlapping interests, whether it’s sports, travelling, or other leisure activities.

Shared activities provide opportunities for quality time together and foster a sense of unity. Men appreciate when their partners are interested in participating in their favorite pastimes or exploring new interests together. This shared involvement enhances connection and adds a layer of enjoyment to the relationship.

Additionally, having common interests helps in building a stronger relationship foundation. It allows partners to bond over mutual passions and create lasting memories. This shared engagement can contribute to a more satisfying and cohesive partnership.

Emotional support and understanding

Emotional support and understanding are crucial for many men in a relationship. Men often seek partners who provide a stable source of comfort and encouragement, especially during challenging times. This support involves being a good listener, offering reassurance, and showing empathy towards their struggles and emotions.

Understanding also means accepting and appreciating their emotional expressions. Men value partners who are patient and non-judgemental, allowing them to express their feelings freely. This mutual understanding helps in creating a supportive environment where both partners can rely on each other for emotional stability.

Moreover, emotional support strengthens the overall relationship by enhancing trust and intimacy. Men often look for partners who can offer consistent support and understanding, contributing to a deeper emotional connection and a more resilient partnership.

Trust and reliability

Trust and reliability are key elements that many men seek in a relationship. Men desire a partner who is dependable and consistently honest, creating a sense of security and stability. Trust involves believing in each other’s integrity and being confident in each other’s commitment to the relationship.

Reliability extends to being consistent in actions and words. Men appreciate partners who follow through on promises and who can be counted on in various situations. This consistency helps in building a solid foundation of trust, which is crucial for long-term relationship satisfaction.

Furthermore, trust and reliability contribute to a harmonious relationship dynamic. Men often seek a partner who can handle challenges with honesty and openness, ensuring that both partners can navigate life’s ups and downs together with confidence and mutual respect.

Last reviewed and updated: 2 July 2024

6 steps to find & attract the man you want

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6 steps to find & attract the man you want

Finding and attracting the right man involves a blend of self-awareness, proactive strategies, and genuine connection.

By following these steps, you can enhance your chances of finding and attracting the right man while also ensuring that you’re approaching relationships in a thoughtful and effective manner.

Here are six detailed steps to help you in this journey.

1. Understand yourself and your desires

The first step in attracting the right man is gaining a deep understanding of yourself and what you truly want in a partner. Begin by reflecting on your values, goals, and preferences. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a relationship, such as emotional support, shared interests, or commitment. Self-awareness helps in setting clear standards and expectations, guiding you towards individuals who align with your vision for a relationship.

Engage in activities that allow you to explore and affirm your desires. This might include journalling about your ideal partner, seeking feedback from trusted friends, or working with a relationship coach. Understanding yourself also involves recognising your own strengths and areas for growth, ensuring that you’re ready to contribute positively to a relationship.

Having a clear sense of what you want not only helps in attracting the right person but also ensures that you’re more likely to make informed and fulfilling choices. By knowing your own desires and needs, you can approach dating with confidence and clarity, making it easier to identify and connect with a compatible partner.

2. Enhance your self-confidence

Self-confidence plays a crucial role in attracting the right man. Start by working on building a positive self-image. Engage in activities that boost your self-esteem, such as pursuing hobbies, setting and achieving personal goals, and practicing self-care. A strong sense of self-worth helps in presenting yourself authentically and positively in dating scenarios.

Developing confidence also involves challenging and overcoming negative self-talk. Replace self-doubt with affirmations and positive reinforcement. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and encourage you. This supportive environment can reinforce your self-assurance and help you project confidence when meeting potential partners.

Confident individuals are often more attractive because they exhibit assurance and clarity about who they are. By cultivating a strong sense of self, you not only improve your chances of attracting the right man but also ensure that you’re approaching relationships from a place of security and self-respect.

3. Expand your social circles

To meet potential partners, it’s important to expand your social circles and engage in activities where you’re likely to meet like-minded individuals. Start by participating in social events, joining clubs, or taking classes that align with your interests. Engaging in new activities increases your chances of meeting people who share similar passions and values.

Networking and building connections in various settings can also help. Attend gatherings, both professional and social, where you can interact with new people. Networking often leads to meeting individuals through mutual acquaintances, which can sometimes result in meaningful connections and introductions to potential partners.

Being open to expanding your social circles not only increases your chances of meeting someone compatible but also enriches your overall social life. Engaging in diverse activities allows you to meet a variety of people, which can lead to finding someone who matches your relationship goals and interests.

4. Utilise online dating wisely

Online dating can be a powerful tool for meeting potential partners if used wisely. Start by choosing reputable dating platforms that align with your goals, whether you’re looking for a serious relationship or something more casual. Create a thoughtful profile that highlights your interests, values, and what you’re looking for in a partner.

When using online dating, be proactive in reaching out and initiating conversations with individuals who seem compatible. Craft personalised messages that reflect genuine interest and avoid generic or superficial comments. This approach increases your chances of making meaningful connections and finding someone who shares your values and interests.

Additionally, be patient and discerning when navigating online dating. It’s important to approach interactions with an open mind while also being cautious and protecting your personal information. Online dating can be an effective way to meet potential partners, but it’s crucial to balance it with real-life interactions and to stay true to your own standards and expectations.

5. Communicate clearly and effectively

Effective communication is key to attracting and maintaining a healthy relationship. Start by being clear about your intentions and what you’re looking for in a partner. Communicate openly about your expectations and be honest about your feelings. This clarity helps in setting the right tone and ensures that both you and your potential partner are on the same page.

Develop strong listening skills as well. Pay attention to what your potential partner is saying and show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings. Active listening builds rapport and trust, which are essential for forming a meaningful connection. It also demonstrates that you value their perspective and are invested in understanding them better.

Good communication also involves expressing your needs and boundaries respectfully. By setting clear boundaries and discussing your relationship goals, you create a foundation of mutual respect and understanding. Effective communication not only helps in attracting the right man but also fosters a healthier and more fulfilling relationship.

6. Be patient and persistent

Finding the right man often requires patience and persistence. Understand that building a meaningful relationship takes time and that finding someone compatible may not happen immediately. Approach the dating process with an open mind and a positive attitude, recognising that each experience is a step towards finding the right match.

Stay persistent by continuing to engage in social activities and exploring new opportunities to meet people. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks or mismatches. Persistence involves remaining proactive in your efforts while maintaining a balanced and optimistic outlook. Keep refining your approach based on your experiences and stay open to new possibilities.

Being patient and persistent also means allowing yourself time to grow and learn from each dating experience. Each interaction offers insights into what you’re looking for and helps you refine your approach. By staying patient and committed to the process, you increase your chances of finding a meaningful and lasting connection.

Last reviewed and updated: 1 July 2024

Cellulitis in children

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Cellulitis in children

Cellulitis is a very common infection of the skin, usually by bacteria. It normally only affects the top layers of the skin.

Cellulitis occurs when there is a sudden infection to the tissue under the skin, by an injury which occurs either through a cut, wound or burn that becomes infected.

Cellulitis can affect any part of the body, depending on which part of the skin the the injury. Cellulitis can affect children as well as adults.

What causes cellulitis

The skin is a great barrier against the bacteria and other micro-organisms that usually live on the skin. They are usually prevented from entering the body and causing an infection.

When the skin is punctured or opened in some way (through a cut, wound or burn), this provides an opening for the bacteria and other micro-organisms to enter and cause infection.

Cellulitis is usually caused by streptococcus and staphylococcus. Two bacteria that can potentially be very serious if not adequately treated.

Certain children are more at risk of getting cellulitis:

  • children with an impaired immune system
  • children with existing dermatitis and eczema
  • children with a history of cellulitis
  • being overweight
  • injury that opens the skin to allow bacteria entry
  • long term swelling of the arms or legs

Symptoms of cellulitis

Cellulitis may affect any part of the baby or toddler’s body (face, eyes, neck, back, chest, arms, legs, anus). Symptoms of cellulitis are:

  • Blood stained stools (if the anus is affected)
  • Headache
  • Itchiness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Pain when passing stools (if the anus is affected)
  • Redness around the anal area (if the anus is affected)
  • Respiratory tract infection
  • Swelling of the eyelid (if the eye is affected)
  • Swelling of the front of face making swallowing difficult (if the face is affected)
  • Tenderness or pain in the eye (if the eye is affected)
  • Tenderness or pain in any area of the body that’s affected
  • Vomiting
  • Watery discharge from the nose

Treatment of cellulitis

The baby or toddler needs to see the doctor, especially if the face or eye are infected as this could become very serious, very quickly.

Cellulitis is normally treated with antibiotics (usually penicillin), so parents with children allergic to penicillin need to inform their doctor so another type of antibiotic can be used.

In addition to this, the baby (or toddler’s) pain can be lessened through the following:

  • Apply a cool compress on the affected area (if the eye is affected, ensure the baby or toddler closes their eye when this is applied)

Some babies will need to be hospitalised to be treated and monitored appropriately.

Complications of cellulitis

Severe cellulitis and untreated cellulitis can spread to the lymph nodes and blood. This can cause very serious effects.

There are two types of cellulitis that have the potential to be very serious and potentially fatal and must be treated urgently:

  • Facial cellulitis – cellulitis of any part of the face
  • Orbital cellulitis – cellulitis of the eye

If cellulitis occurs in either the face or eye, these need to be carefully monitored (and treated appropriately) to ensure that the infection does not spread to the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and brain (cerebrospinal fluid), as it may cause meningitis, a very serious complication.

Erysipelas

Erysipelas is a very severe form of cellulitis and it usually affects the face or lower legs. It is caused by a specific bacteria – streptococci.

Erysipelas can more easily occur if a child already has streptococcal sore throat (which is commonly known as “strep throat”). This can enable the skin infection cellulitis to occur and become quite severe.

It can start very suddenly.

Symptoms

  • High fever and chills
  • Headache
  • Vomiting
  • Itchy, inflamed and very red skin
  • Blisters that may burst and crust over (forming a scab)
  • Lymph nodes may be enlarged

Treatment

Same treatment as cellulitis.

References

  • Cellulitis. National Institutes of Health USA. Accessed 30 June 2024
  • Cellulitis: Symptoms, causes, treatment and more. DermNet, NZ. Accessed 30 June 2024
  • Kid’s health information: cellulitis. The Royal Children’s Hospital, Australia. Accessed 30 June 2024

Last reviewed and updated: 30 June 2024

Calorie calculator

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Calorie calculator

This calorie calculator provides you with the number of calories you need based on your age, weight and level of activity. It also provides your BMR (basal metabolic rate).

Choose metric (metres, centimetres) or imperial (feet, inches), then:

  • Age: select your age group
  • Gender: currently this tool only has two genders, so choose the one closely aligned to you
  • Weight: measure in the morning before you have eaten
  • Height: taken without shoes
  • Goal: Choose the goal you want to achieve
  • Activity level: Choose your activity level
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Target calorie intake per day:
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BMI calculator

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BMI calculator

This tool helps you work out your body mass index (BMI).

Select metric (for metres and centimetres) or standard (for feet and inches).

  • Height: taken without shoes
  • Weight: measure in the morning before you have eaten

BMI calculator

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Your BMI is......

BMIClassification
less than 18.5:Underweight
18.5 - 24.9:Normal weight
25 - 29.9:Overweight
30 - 34.9:Class I Obese
35 - 39.9:Class II Obese
40 upwards:Class III Obese

Carbohydrate intake calculator

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Carbohydrate intake calculator

This tool helps you work out how much carbohydrates you need, to see if it is in the healthy range for your age, activity, goal, height, weight and gender.

Select metric (for metres and centimetres) or standard (for feet and inches).

  • Age: select your age group
  • Gender: currently this tool only has two genders, so choose the one closely aligned to you
  • Height: taken without shoes
  • Weight: measure in the morning before you have eaten
  • Age: add your age at your last birthday
  • Activity level: select your activity from light, moderate or very active

Carb calculator

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Your body Carb requirment ......

The calorie count is then adjusted based on your goal:

  • Weight loss: Reduce by 10-20%
  • Weight gain: Add 500 calories
  • Weight maintenance: Unchanged

    • This calorie count is split into macronutrient percentages in the following ratios, based on splits commonly recommended by our nutrition experts for muscle gain, weight loss, and weight maintenance. (Yes, weight gain and maintenance are the same ratio, but the calories and macros are different.)

    • Weight loss: 40/40/20 (carbohydrates/protein/fats)
    • Weight gain: 40/30/30
    • Weight maintenance: 40/30/30

      • Finally, your carbohydrate intake comes from applying those percentages to your daily calorie number. Each gram of carbohydrates is "worth" 4 calories.