Best-fitting prediction equations for basal metabolic rate: informing obesity interventions in diverse populations

Abstract

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) represents the largest component of total energy expenditure and is a major contributor to energy balance. Therefore, accurately estimating BMR is critical for developing rigorous obesity prevention and control strategies. Over the past several decades, numerous BMR formulas have been developed targeted to different population groups. A comprehensive literature search revealed 248 BMR estimation equations developed using diverse ranges of age, gender, race, fat free mass, fat mass, height, waist-to-hip ratio, body mass index, and weight. A subset of 47 studies included enough detail to allow for development of meta-regression equations. Utilizing these studies, meta-equations were developed targeted to twenty specific population groups. This review provides a comprehensive summary of available BMR equations and an estimate of their accuracy. An accompanying online BMR prediction tool (available at http://www.sdl.ise.vt.edu/tutorials.html) was developed to automatically estimate BMR based on the most appropriate equation after user-entry of individual age, race, gender, and weight.

Body composition and basal metabolic rate in Hidradenitis Suppurativa: a Danish population‐based and hospital‐based cross‐sectional study

“…Predicted BMR estimates provide a simple and inexpensive method, and may be inaccurate as they are based on assumptions. Predicted BMR estimates have previously been validated with conflicting conclusions . Thus, our results of BMR should be interpreted with caution.…”

“…Predicted BMR estimates have previously been validated with conflicting conclusions. 14,16 Thus, our results of BMR should be interpreted with caution.…”

“…The TANITA machine uses a modified version of the Nelson equation to estimate a predicted BMR. 16 The TANITA machine estimates the metabolic age using an equation based on fat%, and reflects the healthy range of the person your fat% most closely relates to i.e. the more above the optimum fat% a person is, the higher the metabolic age will be.…”

A flexible method for aggregation of prior statistical findings

“…In obesity research, over 47 separate studies have estimated human basal metabolic rate (BMR) as a function of different body measures, such as fat mass (F), lean mass (L), body weight (BW), age, and height, among others [16]; combining these findings into a single equation would benefit research and practice.…”

Why is it so hard to change? The role of self‐integrity threat and affirmation in weight loss

“…We know of no other study that has manipulated affirmation and examined effects on exercise (see Harris, 2011), even though exercise is among the most important behaviors for supporting long-term health (Warburton et al, 2006). Recommendations for optimal calorie intake for health depend on factors beyond the present scope, such as basal metabolic rate (Sabounchi, Rahmandad, & Ammerman, 2013) and activity level. This study also examines changes in healthy eating, both with self-reports and by directly observing participants' eating behavior in the lab.…”