Predictive Equation to Estimate Resting Metabolic Rate in Older Chilean Women

Abstract

Resting metabolic rate (RMR) depends on body fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM), whereas abdominal fat distribution is an aspect that has yet to be adequately studied. The objective of the present study was to analyze the influence of waist circumference (WC) in predicting RMR and propose a specific estimation equation for older Chilean women. This is an analytical cross-sectional study with a sample of 45 women between the ages of 60 and 85 years. Weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and WC were evaluated. RMR was measured by indirect calorimetry (IC) and %FM using the Siri equation. Adequacy (90% to 110%), overestimation (>110%), and underestimation (p < 0.001). Among the investigated equations, our proposed equation showed the best adequacy and lowest overestimation. The predictive formulae that consider WC improve RMR prediction, thus preventing overestimation in older women.

Keywords

• resting metabolic rate
• older adult
• waist circumference
• indirect calorimetry
• predictive equations