Introduction: Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is the largest component of daily energy
expenditure and is essential for maintaining energy balance during childhood growth.
Objective: This study evaluated the agreement between bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)
and common predictive equations for estimating RMR in Palestinian boys aged 6–9 years and
aimed to develop a population-specific equation based on fat-free mass (FFM).
Methodology: A total of 1,100 boys from 11 West Bank governorates were randomly selected.
Anthropometric measurements and RMR were assessed, and predictive equation estimates
were compared with BIA values.
Results: Mean RMR was 1117.65 kcal/day. The WHO (1985) equation showed the closest
agreement with BIA. FFM was a strong independent predictor of RMR, leading to the equation:
RMR (kcal/day) = 376.015 + (34.120 × FFM) (R² = 0.88).
Discussion: Growth and RMR values were within normal ranges, though differences from
international standards likely reflect genetic, nutritional, socioeconomic, climatic, and activity
factors.
Conclusion: The FFM-based equation offers a practical tool for monitoring growth, guiding
nutrition, and designing physical activity programs to prevent obesity and related diseases in
Palestinian children.

Title

RETOS

Publisher

RETOS

Publisher Country

Spain

Indexing

Scopus

Impact Factor

None

Publication Type

Online only

Volume

78

Year

2026

Pages

465- 477