Energy metabolism in relation to body composition and gender in adolescents

Abstract

Objective: To study the effect of body composition on average daily metabolic rate (ADMR) and basal metabolic rate (BMR) in adolescence, and to examine current BMR prediction equations.

Study: Dutch adolescents were pooled with previously reported American and British subjects (n = 90 overall). BMR and ADMR were analysed by multiple regression.

Results: Fat-free mass, BMR, and ADMR were higher in the obese than in the non-obese group (mean (SD): 53.2 (10.7) kg, 8.35 (1.57) MJ/d, and 13.64 (2.78) MJ/d, compared with 41.0 (8.1) kg, 6.42 (0.94) MJ/d, and 11.16 (2.21) MJ/d, respectively). BMR remained higher when adjusted for fat-free mass, age, and sex. ADMR adjusted for BMR was similar in the two groups. WHO equations overestimated BMR in obese boys and underestimated BMR in non-obese boys.

Conclusions: BMR, but not activity, is increased in obese adolescents and in male adolescents. The WHO BMR equations for adults are recommended for obese adolescents.