Metabolic rate: a factor in developing obesity in children with Down syndrome?

Resting metabolic rate and its relation with selected anthropometric measures was determined in 11 male and 7 female noninstitutionalized children with Down syndrome. Dietary analysis was performed to determine the nutritional status of the children and whether poor nutritional habits may be influencing factors in the development of obesity in this population. Resting metabolic rate for the total group was 170.4 +/- 38.65 ml.min-1 (0.17 +/- 0.04 ml.kg-1.min-1). Body weight, height, and surface area were moderately correlated with this rate, with height having the strongest relation. Daily caloric intake was 1,433.84 +/- 255.2 calories, comprising of 16.01 +/- 2.20% protein, 42.18 +/- 7.40% fat, and 40.60 +/- 8.83 carbohydrate. Calcium, potassium, and vitamin C were above and iron and thiamine below the recommended daily allowance.