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The conceptual framework for estimating food energy requirement
1National Institute for Food and Nutrition Research, Rome, Italy. ferroluzzi@inran.it
Public Health Nutrition
|November 10, 2005
Summary
The estimation of human energy requirements needs updated predictive equations for basal metabolic rate (BMR). Current evidence does not support an ethnic factor, and the factorial approach should be maintained for accurate energy needs assessment.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Human Physiology
- Public Health
Background:
- The 1985 FAO/WHO/UNU report on Energy and Protein Requirements is due for revision.
- Understanding energy requirements is crucial for public health and nutrition policy.
- Existing methods for estimating energy needs require scientific re-evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current scientific knowledge on estimating human energy requirements.
- To critically assess the principles and methods used in previous FAO/WHO reports.
- To provide recommendations for updating energy requirement estimations.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of scientific rationale in FAO/WHO technical reports.
- Discussion of concepts for basal metabolic rate (BMR), energy expenditure, and physical activity level (PAL).
- Examination of controversial areas and presentation of future research directions.
Main Results:
- The BMR predictive equations from the 1985 report require updating and expansion with strict criteria.
- Available evidence does not support an ethnic/tropical factor influencing BMR.
- The factorial approach for energy requirement calculation should be retained.
Conclusions:
- Energy requirement estimates should be normative, with specific allowances for physical activity and disease prevention.
- Energy needs for children under 10 should be based on energy expenditure, not intake.
- Conflicting evidence and lack of plausible mechanisms preclude the acceptance of an ethnic/tropical factor in BMR.