Harris-Benedict Equation — Resting Energy Expenditure
Estimates basal/resting energy expenditure (REE/BEE) in kcal/day using age, weight, height, and sex. Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) = REE × activity factor. Widely used for nutrition planning in clinical and outpatient settings.
Score interpretation
REE <1400 kcal/day — low resting energy expenditure (small stature, older, low weight)
→ Set nutritional targets based on TDEE; ensure adequate protein intake (0.8–1.2 g/kg); consider dietitian for complex cases; in critical illness use stress factor ×1.2–1.5
REE 1400–2200 kcal/day — typical resting energy expenditure
→ Standard nutritional prescription guided by TDEE; adjust for clinical condition, recovery, or weight targets; re-calculate after significant weight change (>5 kg)
REE >2200 kcal/day — high energy expenditure (large frame, young, very active)
→ Ensure adequate total intake; protein requirements proportionally higher; monitor for inadequate caloric intake in hospitalised patients; clinical dietitian involvement for complex nutrition planning
Interpretation bands for the Harris-Benedict REE. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Harris JA, Benedict FG. A Biometric Study of Human Basal Metabolism. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 1918;4(12):370–373.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Insulin Glargine · Long-Acting Insulin Analogue (Basal)
- Exenatide · GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
- Isophane (NPH) insulin · Intermediate-acting insulin
- Vitamins with minerals and trace elements · Parenteral nutrition supplement
- Parenteral nutrition supplements · Parenteral nutrition
- Fluticasone with vilanterol · ICS + LABA inhaler (once-daily)
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) · JBDS 2013 / Joint British Diabetes Societies; NICE NG17
- Adult Hypoglycaemia (Treated Diabetes) · JBDS-IP (2023): Hospital Management of Hypoglycaemia
- Adrenal Crisis · Society for Endocrinology Emergency Guidance (2024)
- Type 2 Diabetes Management · NICE NG28 2022
- Hyperthyroidism Management · BTA / ETA 2018
- Adrenal Insufficiency · Society of Endocrinology / ESE 2016
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.