Using doubly-labeled water measurements of human energy expenditure to estimate inhalation rates

Doubly-labeled water (DLW) data is recognized as an improvement over alternative methods to quantify human energy expenditure. Previously, energy expenditure has been estimated indirectly using heart-rate monitoring, calorimetry, or accelerometer measurements. Inhalation rate estimates can benefit from improved energy expenditure estimates using equations developed by Layton. DLW methods are advantageous for several reasons: the database is robust, they are direct measures, subjects are free-living, and the observation period is longer than what is possible from staged activity measures. DLW energy data is an improvement over previous inhalation estimates based on dietary recall survey data. Mean long-term inhalation rates of 16 m3/day and 13 m3/day, for physically active adult men and women, respectively, were derived based on DLW estimates of energy expended. The range of human energy expenditure is narrow with the maximum energy expenditure not likely greater than twice the minimum.