Recommended energy allowance (REA).
INTRODUCTION
In infancy, Obesity simplex [see definition and introduction in: “Obesity simplex (primary obesity)” posted on 7/11/ 2007] is (as it is in all other age groups) linked to a surplus of energy (unused energy that is).
It is difficult if not impossible for the carer/minder (parents, nurses, etc) to get the balance right (i.e. between energy taken in and energy expended) in the early days of an infant’s life because many factors (rapid rate of growth, activity, sleep pattern, hunger, satiety, etc.) are involved.
[Note:
1) An obese infant may be either overfed or under-active or both.
2) Overfeeding can occur because the carer (‘feeder’) cannot distinguish between a hunger cry from other crying].
3) Appropriate levels of stimulation of the infant that results in energy expenditure should be explored and encouraged].
RECOMMENDED ENERGY ALLOWANCE (REA) for INFANTS
In the 1989 publication of the National Academy of Sciences ‘Recommended Dietary Allowances’ the following figures are quoted:
a) First 6 months = 108 Calories (kcal) per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight
b) Second 6 months = 98 Calories (kcal) per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight
[Note:
1) A healthy infant’s birth weight:
a) Doubles after around 4 months
b) Triples after around 12 months]
Wherever and whenever possible the REA should be followed because it is linked to the body weight and therefore ‘mirrors’ or ‘shadows’ the development/growth of the infant.
EXAMPLE:
REA for James (aged 3 months and weighing 12 pounds)
Weight in kilograms = 12 pounds divided by 2.2 = 5.4545
REA = 5.4545 x 108 = 589 Calories (kcal)
