Abstract

Author(s): Luis ORTIZ HERNÁNDEZ1, César Iván AYALA GUZMÁN2, Rafael Alejandro MARTÍNEZ BOLA

Our aim was to develop and validate an equation to predict total energy expenditure (TEE) based on anthropometric measurements and physical activity questionnaires that can be applied among non-institutionalized Mexican adults. To meet this aim, a validation study was conducted with a sample of Mexican adults (n=115, 37% men) that were randomly divided into two groups to develop and validate new equations to estimate TEE. TEE was measured by indirect calorimetry and heart rate monitoring for at least three days. These measurements were considered as the reference method. The predictors of TEE were age, sex, fat and fat-free mass, body weight and physical activity level (PAL), which was assessed with two questions. The accuracy of factorial methods (e.g. FAO/WHO or Ainsworth’s metabolic equivalents list) and empirical equations to estimate TEE was compared. Multiple linear regression and Intra-class correlation coefficients were estimate as agreement measurement. The equation developed is as follows: TEE (kcal / d) = 1331.712 - (686.344 x sex, men: 1, women: 2) + (18,051 x body weight, kg) - (16.020 x age, years) + (894.007 x PAL). The accuracy of the equation was modest in the development (R2 = 54.4, standard error = 511.3) and validation (R2 = 59.2, standard error = 372.8) samples. However, this equation had higher accuracy than factorial methods or empirical equations. The equation was developed to estimate the TEE of Mexican adults, which can be used as a general guide to provide nutritional counselling.