Question

What energy requirement (Kcal/kg ideal body weight) would you recommend for an adult obese heavy worker ?

• A. 20-25
• B. 30
• C. 35
• D. 40

Hint:

Regardless of the physical activity level, the clinical priority for any obese individual is caloric restriction. Thus, the lowest energy range (20-25 Kcal/kg IBW) is always chosen.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Energy prescriptions in dietetics are tailored based on an individual's physical activity level and nutritional status (underweight, normal weight, or obese).
For obese individuals, energy prescriptions are designed to establish a negative energy balance to promote safe, steady weight loss while supporting daily work requirements.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
When managing obesity, dietary energy calculations are based on the individual's "ideal body weight" (IBW) rather than their actual weight.
- For obese individuals, the standard therapeutic recommendation is to restrict energy intake to 20 to 25 Kcal per kilogram of ideal body weight per day.
- This hypocaloric prescription forces the body to metabolize endogenous adipose tissue reserves for energy, promoting weight loss.
- Even though the individual is a "heavy worker," prescribing higher values like 35 or 40 Kcal/kg of IBW would provide excess calories, preventing weight loss and potentially worsening obesity.
- A low-calorie but nutritionally balanced diet (20-25 Kcal/kg IBW) ensures that essential micronutrient and protein needs are met while maintaining a caloric deficit.
Therefore, the recommended energy requirement is 20-25 Kcal/kg IBW/day.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The recommended energy requirement for an adult obese heavy worker is 20-25 Kcal/kg ideal body weight.