Abstract
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.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.