Resting Metabolic Rate: Measuring vs. Estimating
Predictive equations, like the Harris Benedict Equation, do not take into account variability among individuals, underlying conditions, or other confounding factors such as:
♦ Body Composition
♦ Obesity
♦ Medications
♦ Genetics
♦ Illness
Many other factors can significantly impact metabolism as well, further compromising the application of predictive formulas.
Read an article on the Harris Benedict equation to calculate BMR vs. scientific measuring with the BodyGem
Research has demonstrated that RMR can vary substantially even among individuals that share the same height, weight, age, and sex.(6)
For the best care, the American Dietetics Association recommends using Indirect calorimetry to measure RMR for the most accurate assessment of nutritional needs.(9)
Here is the validation study for the BodyGem / MedGem indirect calorimeter.
BodyGem Accuracy Validation Study
Here are some BodyGem case studies of facilities that are using the BodyGem and BodyGem Analyzer software:
To get more information:
- Review the BodyGem System purchase options
- Call me directly at 720-431-1461
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I wish you the best of health!
David Wilcoxson
1. RMR is calculated using the Weir Equation and a constant RQ value of 0.85 (RMR=6.913xVO2), Weir, J.B., New Methods for Calculating Metabolic Rate with Special Reference to Protein Metabolism. J Physiol, 1949. 109: pages 1-9.
2. Nieman, David C., Trone, Greg A. and Austin, Melanie D.,”A new handheld device for measuring resting metabolic rate and oxygen consumption.” Journal American Dietetic Association 2003:103 (May), 588-593
.3. Stewart, C., Branson, R., Goody, C.M., “A Comparison of Two Systems for Measuring Energy
Expenditure”. Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 2005:29 (May/June), 212-217.
4. Storer, T.W., et al. “Validation of the MedGem Device for Measurement of Resting Metabolic Rate”, Abstract May 2004 ACSM conference, Indianapolis, IN.
5. James R. Mault, et al. “Efficacy of a Resting Metabolic Rate Based Energy Balance Prescription in a Weight Management Program” Nutrition Week, San Diego, CA. Feb. 2002
6. Foster, G. et al. (1988). Resting Energy Expenditure, Body Composition, and Excess Weight in the Obese. Metabolism, 37(5), 467-472.
7. HealtheTech Technical Report #2 – Comparison of the BodyGem to a Mechanical Simulation Device.
8. Melanson, E. L. et al., Validation of the BodyGem Handheld Calorimeter. Intermational Journal of Obesity 2004:28, 1479-1484
9. Frankenfield, D., Roth-Yousey, and C. Compher, Comparison of Predictive Equations for Resting Metabolic Rate in Healthy Nonobese and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review. J Am Diet Assoc., 2005. 105: p. 775-789.