Question

A patient's energy expenditure is measured using indirect calorimetry with a metabolic cart in a rested state and they have not eaten for 2 days other than clear liquids (clear liquids have CHO and no other source of kcalories). The RQ is 0.72 and the REE is 1400 kcal extrapolated for 24 hours. What does the RQ mean and how many kcalories does this person need, i.e. what is their TEE?

Answer 1

In this question we have to answer what is RQ mean and calculate the TEE.

Full form of RQ is Respiratory quotient.

Respiratory quotient (RQ) is defined as -

The ratio of volume of carbondioxide(CO₂) produced to the oxygen (O₂) consumed.

For example -

RQ of carbohydrates = 1

RQ of fats = 0.7

RQ of proteins = 0.8

The value of RQ of fat is given in this question

RQ = 0.72

Now we have to calculate the total energy expenditure (TEE) -

Values mention in this question are -

Resting energy expenditure(REE) for 24 hours = 1400 kcal

Person is in resting state means activity level is very less .i.e. sedentary

So activity factor in sedentary state is 0.3 for both men and women.

Formula of TEE is -

TEE = REE is multiply by activity factor

As we already mentioned the REE value is 1400 kcal for 24 hours but in this question person have no eaten  for 2 days so we have calculate the total energy expenditure of 2 days.

So, the REE is now become 2800 kcal

REE = 1400 × 2 (days) = 2800

Now , the TEE is

TEE = REE × activity factor

TEE = 2800× 0.3

= 840 k/cal

So, total energy expenditure is 840 kilocalorie.