Resumen

LIC. SANHUEZA, Daniela et al. NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND BASAL ENERGY EXPENDITURE OF CHILEAN PATIENTS WITH DOWN SYNDROME. Diaeta [online]. 2021, vol.39, n.174, pp.39-44. ISSN 1852-7337.

Introduction: a high prevalence of malnutrition due to overweight and obesity has been reported in patients with Down Syndrome (DS), in children, adolescents and adults. A correct evaluation of the basal energy expenditure (BEE) in these patients is a critical aspect of weight control; however, this aspect has not been thoroughly studied. Objective: to evaluate the nutritional status and BEE using indirect calorimetry and two predictive equations in patients with DS from Concepción, Chile.

Materials and methods: a descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in 6 patients with DS: 2 boys and 4 adult women. Weight and height were measured, and the weight/age index (children) and the body mass index (adults) were calculated. The determination of the BEE was carried out by indirect calorimetry and using two predictive equations: Harris & Benedict and FAO/WHO (1985). The results were expressed as means, standard deviations, medians and ranges, and the comparison of the BEE values was performed using the Wilcoxon test (α = 0.05).

Results: 50% of the patients were overweight. No statistically significant differences were found between the BEE calculated by the predictive equations, and that obtained by indirect calorimetry.

Conclusion: In the group of patients with DS evaluated, BEE could be estimated through the predictive equations (Harris & Benedict and FAO/ WHO, 1985), given its agreement with the values obtained by indirect calorimetry, which can be very useful in clinical practice, allowing the elaboration of adequate feeding plans for these patients.

Palabras clave : down syndrome; nutritional status; basal energy expenditure; indirect calorimetry; Harris and Benedict; FAO/OMS equation..

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