Selecting Body Weight for Energy-Prediction Equations

Energy-prediction equations include body weight as one of the factors in the formula. For many formulas, if the patient/client is overweight or obese using actual body weight can overestimate the energy estimates because adipose tissue requires less energy than lean muscle mass. Other formulas were developed using actual weight.  To produce a more accurate measurement, use the following recommendations. 

In adults under 65 in the: 
»    Healthy weight range (BMI 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m²), use actual body weight 
»    Underweight range (BMI <18.5 kg/m2), use actual body weight 
»    Overweight or obese range (BMI >25.0 kg/m²), use the Mifflin-St Jeor equation and actual body weight⁽¹⁾

In adults 65 and older in the: 
»    Healthy weight range (BMI 21 to 27 kg/m²), use actual body weight
»    Underweight range (BMI <21 kg/m2), use actual body weight
»    Overweight or obese range (BMI >27.0 kg/m²), use the Mifflin-St Jeor equation and actual body weight⁽¹⁾

References
1.  Mifflin MD, St-Jeor S, Hill LA, et al. A new predictive equation for resting energy expenditure in healthy individuals. Am J Clin Nutr. 1990; 51: 241-247.