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Abstract: Objective. – Verify the validity of some of the equations used to determine the resting metabolism and the usual value of oxygen consumption (1 MET). Methods. – Ten active males (age 23.9±2.13) and ten active females (age 23.2±1.61) participated in the evaluation of their resting metabolism by indirect calorimetry (Vacumed Gas Analyser:Ventura, CA). Results. – Eighty percent of the subjects had a lower resting metabolism than what it would have been with the equation of Harris and Benedict or Black et al. Results were also lower (P <0.01) than the estimated resting metabolism in terms of oxygen consumption. The average consumption for women was 2.48 ml/kg per minute (±0.6) and 2.66 ml/kg per minute (±0.71) for men, both far from the classical value of one MET (3.5 ml d''O2/kg per minute). Conclusions. – It is necessary to re-evaluate the equation used to predict resting metabolism to better fit the current population''s energy expenditure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An ICU patient reacted to multiple trauma, sepsis, etc. with extensive physiological responses including release of endocrine and inflammatory mediators (pro-inflammatory cytokines, stress hormones, etc.) and activation of several systems (sympathic, coagulation, immune, etc.) Energy expenditure was heightened and progressive erosion of the proteic compartment was observed. The mechanisms of protein catabolism are complex, with catabolism in muscle and anabolism elsewhere, which vary depending on the clinical situation. Oxidative stress is high and the antioxidant defenses are brought into play (enzymatic and nonenzymatic). The digestive tract, a victim of these different responses, also aggresses the body by translocatiog bacteria and toxins and releasing mediators. Even if the causal mechanisms are not elucidated, enteral nutrition has shown its beneficial effects on the digestive tract. It is associated with a reduction in infection and a less severe systemic response on the part of the body. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]