WHY TEST RESTING METABOLIC RATE?
- To make informed changes to programs. Research shows that metabolic rate changes during weight loss. That’s why it is important to monitor RMR throughout the weight-loss process.
- To assess efficacy of treatment. The caloric goals of a dietary plan will rarely sustain a patient throughout an entire weight loss regimen. The result is the dreaded “plateau.” Periodic assessment of RMR will show the effects of the treatments and allow adjustments to the caloric goals.
- To motivate patients. Some doctors use RMR tests as an “informational and motivational” guide to teach patients about their body and remove any excuses of a “low metabolism.”
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RMR FAQs
Here are some resources to help you learn more about RMR testing with KORR’s ReeVue.
What is RMR?
Metabolic rate is a measure of how much food, or fat, is converted to energy in a day. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is the measurement of how much food, or energy, is required to maintain basic body functions such as heartbeat, breathing, and maintenance of body heat while you are in a state of rest. That energy is expressed in calories per day. So an RMR test shows how many calories you burn at rest, doing nothing more than sitting in a chair.
How is an RMR test conducted?
Conducting a test on reevue is as easy as 1, 2, 3…
- Turn on the ReeVue ™ and wait while it automatically calibrates. The machine will indicate when calibration is complete.
- Expand KORR’s disposable breathing hose and connect it to the machine. Have the patient place the nose clip on their nose and the mouthpiece in their mouth.
- Tell the patient to relax and breathe normally. After approximately 10 minutes, the machine will end the test. The results can then be printed out.
Why test RMR to treat obesity?
Proof of “normal” metabolism
Most overweight people are convinced they have a slow metabolism. The truth is that statistically, most overweight and obese individuals have average or higher than average metabolic rates. Taking a measurement removes this excuse. Seeing that their bodies can indeed burn calories can be very encouraging and motivating.
Stabilize weight loss
Regardless of the method used to lose weight, a patient’s RMR will decrease after weight loss. The decrease is actually below the level predicted by fat-free mass (FFM). Although the cause is unclear, it appears that in most cases, if a patient can maintain his new weight for 6 months, his RMR will eventually rise to the expected level. Pinpointing the precise number of calories necessary to maintain is key to surviving this crucial period.
Pinpoint caloric weight loss zone
When restricting calories, knowing a baseline RMR is invaluable. KORR Metabolic Analyzers calculate a “weight loss zone” for 1 ½ pound a week weight loss, or practitioners can use the RMR to calculate a caloric goal unique for their patients.
Detection and Diagnosis of hypo-metabolism
In cases where a patient has a clinically low metabolic rate, further diagnosis and treatment by a physician will be required before successful weight loss can be achieved.
Assess the effect of weight loss treatment on metabolism
Once calories are restricted, medications are introduced, or an exercise plan has been implemented, the human body will respond. This is especially true of significant interventions, such as bariatric surgery. The caloric goals of a dietary plan will rarely sustain a patient throughout an entire weight loss regimen. The result is the dreaded “plateau.” Periodic assessment of RMR will show the effects of the treatments and allow adjustments to the caloric goals.
Why test RMR for Nutritional Assessments?
Proper nutritional care is VITAL for the hospitalized patient. Studies show that hospital stays are reduced an average of 60% when nutritional status is evaluated and needs are met.
The formulas that predict caloric needs for nutritional assessment (Harris Benedict, Miffin, etc) are inadequate for certain populations, especially sick or hospitalized patients. RMR is recommended for the following populations:
- All patients receiving parental or enteral nutrition
- Hyper-metabolic patients (burns, trauma, sepsis, head injury)
- Starvation-adapted or malnourished patients
- Extremely obese patients (>=200% of ideal body weight)
- Patients with non-healing wounds
- Patients with abnormal body composition (multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, spinal cord injury, amputations).
- Patients who can benefit from education about appropriate calorie intake.
Is RMR testing reimbursable?
Indirect calorimetry is CPT coded and is covered by Medicare and most insurance providers. If you have any questions about insurance coverage, contact insurance providers directly.
For more information about reimbursement, click here.
WHY TEST WITH reevue?
ReeVue is simple to use.
The ReeVue has a simple user interface that assists the operator from start to finish. No training or certification is required. It does not require a computer or software, and even the printer is optional. Everything you need is at your fingertips!
ReeVue is self-calibrating.
Adjustments for barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity are key to an accurate VO2 measurement. The ReeVue measures these parameters during each routine
ReeVue is Clean.
KORR uses a one-way valve in the disposable MetaBreather mouthpiece. This draws in fresh room air with each inspiratory breath and eliminates concerns about cross contamination. The disposable is thrown away and there is no need to clean equipment between each patient.
ReeVue uses “Gold Standard” technology.
A mixing chamber is considered the “Gold Standard” for Indirect Calorimetry (more commonly referred to as a Metabolic Measurement.) In the past, this system has been complicated and expensive, making it only practical for ICU’s and research departments. KORR advancements in technology make this method feasible for the typical practitioner.
