Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026
04:48
Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
Basal metabolic rate in anorexia nervosa patients: using appropriate predictive equations during the refeeding
Valerie L Forman-Hoffman1, Timothy Ruffin, Susan K Schultz
1Department of Respiratory Care, The University of Iowa, Roy J and Lucille A Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA. valerie-hoffman@uiowa.edu
Summary
Accurate basal metabolic rate (BMR) prediction is crucial for anorexia nervosa (AN) patients during refeeding. Metabolism rebounds with weight gain, but precise BMR equations are still needed for safe nutritional rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Psychiatry
- Metabolic Research
- Eating Disorder Treatment
Background:
- Refeeding anorexia nervosa (AN) patients poses physiological stress due to long-term starvation effects.
- Accurate basal metabolic rate (BMR) prediction is essential for safe weight gain during AN nutritional rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess changes in BMR in AN patients during nutritional rehabilitation.
- To evaluate the accuracy of predictive BMR equations during the early refeeding phase.
Main Methods:
- Indirect calorimetry was used to measure BMR in seven female AN patients.
- BMR and weight were assessed at baseline and after three weeks of high-calorie (approx. 3500 kcal/day) refeeding.
Main Results:
- Body mass index (BMI) increased from 13.7 to 15.2 kg/m2.
- Median BMR increased from 1000 to 1220 kcal/day.
- The Harris-Benedict equation accurately predicted BMR at 3-week follow-up; Owens and Mifflin equations showed moderate accuracy.
Conclusions:
- Calorie restriction suppresses metabolism in AN patients, with a prompt rebound upon weight gain.
- Accurate BMR predictive equations are needed for the critical early refeeding period in AN treatment.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Metabolic Rate
The human body is a powerhouse of energy, with every cell performing numerous functions that require energy. This energy production and consumption is measured by the metabolic rate, which quantifies the total heat generated by all the body's chemical reactions and mechanical work. This measurement helps to determine the rate of kilocalorie (kcal) consumption needed to fuel all ongoing activities.
The Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) measures the energy expended at rest.
Several factors influence the...
The Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) measures the energy expended at rest.
Several factors influence the...
01:28Drug Dosing in Renal Diseases: Estimation of Glomerular Filtration Rate Based on Serum Creatinine Concentration
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can be estimated from serum creatinine using the modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) formula or the chronic kidney disease–epidemiology collaboration (CKD–EPI) equation. Both methods are widely used in clinical practice to assess kidney function and guide treatment decisions.The MDRD equation does not require weight or height measurements and is normalized to the body surface area of 1.73 m², considered the average adult surface area. This equation is...