OBJECTIVE: To assess the validity and reliability of the Microlife BodyGem™ hand-held indirect calorimeter.
DESIGN: Resting metabolic rate (RMR) was measured on two separate mornings.
SUBJECTS: A heterogeneous sample of 41 healthy adults.
MEASUREMENTS: RMR using both a metabolic cart (Sensormedics 2900, SM-2900) and a hand-held indirect calorimeter (BodyGem™, BG).
RESULTS: There were no trial-to-trial differences in RMR measured by the BG (6756±163 vs 6697±163 kJ/day) or the SM-2900 (6400±163 vs 6396±167 kJ/day). RMR measured by the BG was significantly higher than that measured by the SM-2900 during both trials. In a sample of 10 subjects, the energy cost of holding the BG in position was determined to be (0.17±0.04 kJ/min, or 255±84 kJ/day). After applying this adjustment, the differences between systems were no longer significant during trial 1 (mean difference=101±67 kJ/day) or trial 2 (46±75 kJ/day). In overweight and obese individuals, RMR measured by the BodyGem™ was more accurate than that estimated by the Harris–Benedict equations.
CONCLUSION: The BodyGem provides valid and reliable measurements of RMR. The BodyGem produces significantly higher values than the Sensor Medics 2900 indirect calorimeter, with the increase largely due to an increased energy demand required to hold the BG in position. View the full BodyGem validation article from the International Journal of Obesity.
The BodyGem is the same type of indirect calorimeter as the MedGem, but it’s designed for professionals who don’t need to make insurance claims.
It’s Simple – To perform a measurement, your client simply breathes into the BodyGem, which measures their oxygen consumption (VO2), the resulting RMR number is clearly displayed on the device’s LCD screen.
It’s Accurate – The BodyGem has been validated against the gold standard Douglas Bag, and other commonly used metabolic carts.
It’s Convenient – The BodyGem comes with a portable carry case, it’s self-calibrating, easy to administer, and provides a result in 10 minutes or less.
It’s Affordable – The BodyGem is available in different measurement capacities to ensure your organization has the right device for your needs Offer your clients the best possible results by incorporating the BodyGem tools and solutions into your programs. There isn’t a simpler, more accurate or profitable way to tailor each client’s program for ultimate success. Providing metabolic testing helps you generate additional revenue, as the average measurement provider charges between $50-$75 for the metabolism test.
For more information about the BodyGem, click on Microlife BodyGem indirect calorimeter. Or call Harvey Harris at 1-800-743-3328 to discuss BodyGem System Kit pricing options.