Basal Metabolism in high performance athletes: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: the importance of basal metabolism within the lifestyle of each person is fundamental; in an athlete, three prominent aspects must be taken into account: the thermal effect of food, energy expenditure in physical activity and basal energy expenditure; however, the calculation of this can be affected by various factors such as age, sex, weight, fasting, rest, etc. For its measurement, three main methods were established: direct calorimetry, indirect calorimetry and the use of formulas. Methodology: the research was developed based on an observational descriptive systematic review. Likewise, academic sources, bibliographic searches, databases and search engines such as Google Scholar and PubMed have been used; the extraction of updated information was taken into account, that is, of the last five years to obtain specific information on the subject. Results: In the present investigations, it was necessary to calculate the basal metabolism that the athlete knows the ideal conditions in which he should present himself for the evaluation; these are, and fasting, physical and emotional rest. Calorimetry tests, whether direct or indirect, are expensive, and for this reason, the use of formulas is more feasible, which according to studies, is the most used of Harris-Benedict. Discussion: of the methods used to determine basal metabolism, whether direct or indirect calorimetry or formulas, the use of calorimetry is the best option for measuring basal metabolism; however, its high cost for its application prevents it from being carried out regularly. Therefore, the use of formulas that strengthen a certain degree of difference between the result is resorted to, and thus a broader view of sports development is obtained.