A recent study led by Diego A. Restrepo-Botero from the Research Division at Dynamical Business & Science Society—DBSS International SAS in Bogotá has introduced a new equation to estimate resting energy expenditure (REE) tailored specifically for the Colombian population. This research, published in the journal ‘Nutrients’, addresses a significant gap in energy expenditure estimation methods, especially for individuals engaged in moderate-to-high physical activity levels.
Resting energy expenditure is crucial for understanding how much energy the body requires at rest, accounting for a substantial portion of total daily energy expenditure (TDEE). Traditional equations for estimating REE, such as Harris-Benedict and Mifflin-St. Jeor, may not accurately reflect the metabolic needs of diverse populations, leading to potential miscalculations in nutritional prescriptions and exercise programs. Restrepo-Botero’s study highlights that existing formulas showed significant bias when applied to Colombian adults, suggesting that these methods may overestimate or underestimate energy needs.
The study evaluated 86 healthy adults, analyzing various anthropometric variables and measuring REE through indirect calorimetry with wearable gas analyzers. Notably, the research found that the sum of skinfold-corrected girths correlated significantly with REE, a finding that had not been previously reported. This correlation opens up new avenues for energy assessment in physical activity and health monitoring.
The newly developed NRGCO equation incorporates body mass, corrected thigh and calf girths, age, and the sum of skinfolds to provide a more accurate estimation of REE. The equation is as follows: REE (kcal) = 386.256 + (24.309 × BM) − (2.402 × ∑8S) − (21.346 × Corrected Thigh) + (38.629 × Corrected Calf) − (7.417 × Age). The researchers also identified a simpler model that only requires body mass and the sum of skinfolds, making it more accessible for practical applications.
“The results of this study might help practitioners achieve greater accuracy in the assessment, design, and monitoring of nutritional and physical exercise interventions,” Restrepo-Botero stated. This accuracy is particularly crucial in preventing issues like Relative Energy Deficiency Syndrome, which can lead to various health problems, including decreased athletic performance and increased injury risk.
The implications of this research extend beyond individual health and fitness. For the energy sector, the ability to accurately estimate energy expenditure can enhance the development of tailored nutritional products, fitness programs, and wearable technology that monitors energy use. Companies in the health and wellness industry could leverage this new equation to create more effective dietary and exercise plans for Colombian consumers, potentially leading to improved health outcomes and better market penetration.
As the demand for personalized health solutions continues to rise, the NRGCO equation represents a significant advancement in energy expenditure estimation, offering commercial opportunities for businesses focused on nutrition and fitness. The findings from Restrepo-Botero’s study underscore the importance of localized research in developing effective health strategies, paving the way for further studies and validations in diverse populations.
