Harris-Benedict Basal Energy Expenditure
Estimates basal energy expenditure from weight, height, age and sex.
When to use
Initial estimate of basal energy expenditure in adults, before applying activity or stress factors.
Pearls and pitfalls
- The result is basal expenditure, not total expenditure; activity, fever and stress increase needs.
- The revised Roza and Shizgal equation is used here, with different coefficients by sex.
- Obesity, amputation, burns and mechanical ventilation reduce the accuracy of the estimate.
- Indirect calorimetry is preferable when available and accuracy is critical.
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Formula
Men: 88.362 + 13.397 × weight + 4.799 × height − 5.677 × age. Women: 447.593 + 9.247 × weight + 3.098 × height − 4.330 × age.
Evidence
Revised Harris and Benedict equations, reevaluated in healthy adults by Roza and Shizgal.
References
- Roza AM, Shizgal HM. The Harris Benedict equation reevaluated: resting energy requirements and the body cell mass. Am J Clin Nutr. 1984;40(1):168-182. doi:10.1093/ajcn/40.1.168
- Harris JA, Benedict FG. A biometric study of human basal metabolism. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 1918;4(12):370-373. doi:10.1073/pnas.4.12.370
Frequently asked questions
What is Harris-Benedict Basal Energy Expenditure?
Estimates basal energy expenditure from weight, height, age and sex. Initial estimate of basal energy expenditure in adults, before applying activity or stress factors.
How is the result calculated?
Men: 88.362 + 13.397 × weight + 4.799 × height − 5.677 × age. Women: 447.593 + 9.247 × weight + 3.098 × height − 4.330 × age.
How should the result be interpreted?
Revised Harris and Benedict equations, reevaluated in healthy adults by Roza and Shizgal.
What are the sources?
Roza AM, Shizgal HM. The Harris Benedict equation reevaluated: resting energy requirements and the body cell mass. Am J Clin Nutr. 1984;40(1):168-182. Harris JA, Benedict FG. A biometric study of human basal metabolism. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 1918;4(12):370-373.