[Physiological energy requirements of schoolchildren]

To obtain more accurate data on physiological energy requirements of schoolchildren, daily energy expenditure was studied in pupils at a general school (70 subjects) and at a boarding school (152 subjects). Evaluation of daily energy expenditure was made on the basis of the study of the schoolchildren's time budget and their energy expenditure at the main body postures and during varying types of activity. The data obtained were used for validation of physiological energy requirements of schoolchildren of different age and sex. It was found that at present physiological energy requirements of schoolchildren are 10-15% lower as compared to those of schoolchildren in the 60th years. On the basis of the data obtained the authors have recommended the food rations for schoolchildren with the energy value depending on their age and sex: from 7 to 10 years--2300 kcal for boys and 1950 kcal for girls, from 11 to 17 years--2900 kcal for boys and 2400 kcal for girls.