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A Practical Equation to Predict Resting Metabolic Rate in Older Men
Author(s) -
Bell Stacey J.
Publication year - 1994
Publication title -
journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.935
H-Index - 98
eISSN - 1941-2444
pISSN - 0148-6071
DOI - 10.1177/0148607194018002193
Subject(s) - basal metabolic rate , regression analysis , mathematics , stepwise regression , regimen , statistics , medicine , linear regression
It is important to know the resting metabolic rate (RMR) of patients to devise a nutrition support regimen. Although there are numerous equations for predicting RMR, few (eg, the Harris Benedict equation [HBE]) are specific for elderly individuals over the age of 50 years. The purpose of this study was to (1) examine biologic predictors of RMR in healthy older men, (2) develop a practical equation to predict RMR from readily measurable variables, and (3) compare existing equations that predict RMR with the measured RMR values obtained in this study. Eighty‐nine healthy, elderly (aged 50 to 78 years) men had their RMR measured by a ventilated‐hood technique under meticulous conditions described in full detail. Other biologic data were obtained. A stepwise regression equation was computed by using the measured RMR as the dependent variable and the other data as independent variables. The best predictors of RMR were fat‐free mass (which accounted for 85% of the variability), free 3,5,3′‐triiodothyronine level, and maximal oxygen consumption; the latter two variables each accounted for 1% of the variability. RMR was estimated with a residual error of ±30 kcal/d by using these variables.