Modeling Body Composition Changes During Starvation
Author Information
Author(s): Hargrove James L, Heinz Grete, Heinz Otto
Primary Institution: Department of Foods and Nutrition, University of Georgia
Hypothesis
Transitions in waist girth and several body compartments would fit a simple exponential model that approaches a stable steady-state.
Conclusion
Changes in several anthropometric and physiological measures can be modeled as an exponential approach to steady state using widely available software.
Supporting Evidence
- Body mass declined with a first order rate constant of about 0.079 wk-1.
- The rate of loss of abdominal fat was 0.213 wk-1.
- On average, 0.77 kg was lost per cm of waist girth.
Takeaway
When people eat less and stay active, their body measurements change in a predictable way that can be calculated using a simple formula.
Methodology
The model was applied to outcomes from the Minnesota starvation experiment using Microsoft Excel's Solver function to derive rate parameters and steady state values.
Limitations
Data for most endpoints were only available at three time points, limiting the analysis.
Participant Demographics
32 male conscientious objectors aged 20-33 years, mean age 25.5 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website