Cosmed Q-NRG, User Manual, Page: 23 / 152

21/148 REF C04717-02-91 Q-NRG User Manual, Edition 4.2
Chapter 1 - Get Started COSMED srl
Introduction to Indirect Calorimetry
Indirect calorimetry is a method to determine the energy expenditure by measuring oxygen consumption (VO2)
and carbon dioxide production (VCO2) of a subject.
These measurements allow the Resting Energy Expenditure (REE) and the Respiratory Quotient (RQ) to be
calculated.
The RQ represents the ratio of carbon dioxide exhaled to the amount of oxygen consumed by the individual. RQ
assists in the interpretation of the REE results.
Resting energy expenditure (REE), or energy expenditure measured in resting conditions either on spontaneously
breathing or ventilated subjects has a number of useful clinical applications; references are cited in the Appendix of
this manual.
Metabolic equivalent (MET) is defined as the amount of oxygen consumed while sitting at rest and is equal to 3.5
mL/kg/min O2.
REE measurement acts as a precise tool in determining a subject’s basal nutritional requirements, it provides
information that allows for adequate planning of nutritional goals.
REE is the minimum caloric requirement of the organism in order to sustain life. This includes calories for the vital
organs to properly operate at rest (heart, brain, lungs, liver, kidneys, etc.).