Molly is an 18-year-old college student who is 5' 7" tall and weighs 140 pounds.How many kilocalories does she expend each day for basal metabolism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To calculate basal metabolic rate (BMR), we can use the Mifflin-St. Jeor equation:

BMR = 10 x weight (kg) + 6.25 x height (cm) - 5 x age (years) + 5

Converting Molly's measurements to metric units:
Weight = 140 lbs / 2.205 = 63.5 kg
Height = 5' 7" = (5 x 12) + 7 = 67 inches = 170.18 cm

Assuming Molly's age is 18: 
BMR = 10 x 63.5 + 6.25 x 170.18 - 5 x 18 + 5 = 1,475.27 kcal/day

However, the Mifflin-St. Jeor equation does not take into account factors such as body composition, physical activity, and hormonal influences, so it may not be an accurate reflection of an individual's actual metabolic rate. In addition, BMR only represents the number of calories needed for basic bodily functions (such as breathing and circulation), not for daily activities.

Molly Is an 18-Year-Old College Student Who Is 5' 7