How to Calculate a Child's Basal Metabolic Rate

How to Calculate a Child's Basal Metabolic Rate
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A child, just like any other individual, has a basal metabolic rate that is unique to that individual. Your basal metabolic rate, or BMR, is the minimum caloric requirement to sustain life in a resting state. In other words, it is the amount of calories burned if you were to perform no activity throughout the day. This information can be found by inputting an individual's information into the Harris-Benedict Formula.

Step 1

Convert metric units. To use this formula, you will need to use kilograms and centimeters. To convert pounds to kilograms, divide the weight in pounds by 2.2 to convert to kilograms. To convert your height in inches to centimeters, take your height in inches and multiply by 2.54.

Step 2

Calculate BMR using the Harris-Benedict Formula. The equation for males is: BMR = 66 + (13.7 X weight in kg) + (5 X height in cm) -- (6.8 X age in years).

Step 3

Calculate BMR using the Harris-Benedict Formula, adapted for females: BMR = 655 + (9.6 + weight in kg) + (1.81 X height in cm) -- (4.7 X age in years).

Step 4

Check your math to make sure your calculations are correct.

Things You'll Need

  • Calculator

References

Article reviewed by Kile McKenna Last updated on: Jul 19, 2011

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