Harris-Benedict equation

Harris-Benedict equation to estimate caloric needs ° Males... 

Alternative to the Harris-Benedict equations 0 Maintenance or mild stress... 

Each equation for estimating energy requirements has advantages and disadvantages, but none has been shown to be superior to another. The most popular is the Harris-Benedict equation. 

For children less than three years old, a modified version of the Harris-Benedict equation has been developed by Caldwell-Kennedy ... 

Another method to estimate someone s basal metabolic rate (BMR) is to interpolate from equations called the Harris-Benedict equations, which have been derived on the basis of numerous experiments made on many human subjects, using the methods described above. 

EXAMPLE 10.25 Using the Harris-Benedict equations, it is possible to gain a good estimate of an indivdual s BMR given the person s age, weight, and height. There is no biochemical rationale behind these equations, but they are useful for everyday approximation. Note that the equations return values as kilocalories. It is necessary to multiply by 4.184 to convert the results to kilojoules. 

A factor that is omitted in the Harris-Benedict equations is lean body mass. So formulas... 

What are likely possible problems with using the Harris-Benedict equations (Example 10.25) to calculate someone s BMR ... 

The major inaccuracy in the Harris-Benedict equation is that it relies on total weight and not lean body weight (or mass) that is the primary determinant of BMR. It is not accurate in the very muscular, where it underestimates BMR, and the very obese, where it overestimates the BMR. Other equations have been formulated that allow rapid prediction of BMR from whole body parameters. 

The energy expenditure (EE) is the amount of energy used, i.e., required for health, growth, and a level of activity. EE can be calculated either with an equation or by direct measurement. The basal metabolic rate (BMR) is measured in calories and is primarily accounted for by the activity of the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. The Harris-Benedict equations (following below) are commonly used for calculation of the BMR in adults. 

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