Resting metabolic rate (RMR) equations; what's the story?



Finding the RMR for your client or pt is a crucial first step in diagnosing adequate energy requirements; without this basic info, we can't very well proceed with the NCP. RMR is defined as the energy required for vital bodily functions at rest. The most accurate way to get this number is through indirect calorimetry. This is both way to expensive and time consuming for the daily routine of RDs. For this reason, prediction equations using basic, easy to get data such as, age, weight and height are used. There are a lot of these equations, and some debate as to which one is the most accurate.

The study set out to test the accuracy of the Harris-Benedict, WHO, Mifflin-St Jeor, Nelson, Wang equations and three meta-equations of Sabounchi. Both group and individual accuracy were tested. There was also the element of RMR to fat free mass (FFM) introduced as a critical relationship when discussing energy requirements.

The envelope please...

For group accuracy the award goes to Harris-Benedict and WHO. The Mifflin-St Jeor was most accurate for individuals, but it had a tendency to undervalue the energy needs. All of the equations became less accurate with increasing FFM. Overall RMR equations should continue to be undertaken with caution. As usual, more research is needed. Until then, go with  the Harris-Benedict.

Journal of the AND. Cross-Validation of Resting Metabolic Rate Prediction Equations. 2016

FD

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Are All Sugars Created Equal?

Milk Mythbusters